Police beef up security, restrict drone operation in Akwa Ibom ahead Tinubu's visit

Akwa Ibom State Police Command says it has beefed up the state’s security ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s visit.

The president is scheduled to visit Akwa Ibom on Friday, November 5, 2026, to commission projects and hold a town hall meeting with political stakeholders in the state.

Addressing a press conference in Uyo on Thursday, the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohhammed Azare, said the command, in collaboration with other security agencies in the state, has concluded arrangements to ensure a hitch-free exercise.

He added that there will be a total restriction on the operation and flying of drones within the Uyo metropolis, as well as the use of fireworks throughout the period of the Presidential visit.

He said the measure was to prevent unnecessary panic, eliminate avoidable security distractions and ensure that security personnel can respond effectively to any genuine security concern.

The Commissioner said that though they do not envisage any problem, they are ready to deal decisively with any eventuality during the visit of Mr President.

“The Command, in conjunction with other security agencies, have met, deliberated, and put robust security measures in place to check any instances of criminals,” he said.

The CP added that some routes in the state would be restricted from members of the public during the President’s visit to ensure a free flow of traffic for his entourage, saying the decision was not an attempt to witch-hunt anyone.

He announced routes billed for temporary restrictions to include: Airport Road, Shelter Afrique Junction, Oron Road, Nung Oku Junction, Mbierebe Junction, and Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

He appealed to members of the public to use alternative routes and cooperate with security agencies throughout the visit, even as he acknowledged the inconvenience the temporary movement restriction may cause the general public.