A High Court sitting in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, has awarded damages to a masquerade who was arrested by the state police command for allegedly breaching public peace while performing traditional worship rites.
The arrest followed an executive order reportedly issued by the state governor, directing the Commissioner of Police to arrest any masquerade seen during the Yuletide period.
Acting on the directive, a masquerade identified as Mr. Effiong, a traditional worshipper, was arrested and subsequently charged to court.
However, in a landmark judgment, the court ruled in favour of the masquerade and his custodian. The presiding judge held that Ekpo, a recognized traditional religious practice in Akwa Ibom State, is protected under the law and that its adherents are entitled to the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution.
The court noted that Mr. Effiong’s arrest and detention for allegedly disturbing public peace violated his rights to personal liberty and freedom of religion.
Consequently, the court ordered his immediate and unconditional release and directed the Akwa Ibom State Government to pay damages for the infringement of his fundamental human rights and freedom of worship.
Human rights experts have described the judgment as significant, noting that it reinforces the constitutional protection of traditional religious practices in Nigeria and the need for authorities to respect the country’s religious and cultural diversity.
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