Tinubu’s Akwa Ibom Visit: Police Ban Drones, Fireworks As Security Measures Tighten
By IFIOK UDOM
Police Activate Security Measures Ahead of Presidential Visit
THE Akwa Ibom State Police Command has introduced extensive security and traffic control measures ahead of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s official visit to the state on Friday 6 November 2026.
The arrangements aim to protect the President, maintain public order and ensure the smooth movement of his convoy. They will also provide a secure environment for the presidential engagements and other scheduled activities.
Speaking at a press briefing at the Police Headquarters in Ikot Akpan Abia, Uyo, the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, said the command had coordinated its preparations with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders.
Drone Operations & Fireworks Prohibited
As part of the measures, the police have prohibited all drone operations and flights within Uyo metropolis throughout the presidential visit.
According to Azare, the restriction will protect controlled airspace, secure strategic locations and prevent possible security breaches. Consequently, drone operators, service providers and members of the public must comply with the directive.
In addition, the command has banned fireworks, knockouts and other explosive sound-producing devices within the state capital during the visit.
The police explained that the restriction would prevent unnecessary panic and avoid distractions that could interfere with security operations. Residents and business operators have therefore been urged to observe the prohibition.
Police Identify Routes Affected by Movement Restrictions
Meanwhile, the command has announced temporary restrictions on public movement along selected roads and strategic locations to facilitate the presidential convoy’s movement and security coverage.
The affected routes and locations include:
- Airport Road.
- Shelter Afrique Junction.
- Oron Road.
- Nung Oku Junction.
- Mbierebe Junction.
- Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
The police have advised motorists and other road users to avoid the affected corridors during the restriction period. Instead, residents should use alternative routes and plan their journeys ahead.
Furthermore, drivers have been urged to exercise patience and cooperate with traffic officers and security personnel deployed along the affected roads.
Police Seek Public Cooperation
Azare appealed to residents to understand that the temporary restrictions are necessary security arrangements rather than measures intended to impose hardship.
He assured the public that the command was working closely with other security agencies to coordinate intelligence sharing, traffic management and security deployment across strategic locations.
Although the restrictions may disrupt normal movement, the police expressed regret over the inconvenience and appealed for patience and cooperation.
The commissioner also urged residents to remain law-abiding, stay away from restricted areas and obey lawful instructions from security personnel.
Finally, he encouraged members of the public to report suspicious movements and security concerns to the nearest police station or through established police emergency channels.
