The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has placed a total restriction on the flying of drones and prohibited fireworks across Uyo ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s official visit.
President Tinubu is starting a two-day trip to Akwa Ibom and Rivers states to commission key infrastructure projects and participate in All Progressives Congress campaign rallies ahead of the 2027 elections. The travel plans were confirmed on Thursday through a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Speaking to journalists at the police headquarters in Ikot Akpan, Uyo, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Azare, explained that the actions are meant to maintain order, secure restricted airspace, and ensure the safe movement of the presidential convoy, according to Punch. Azare warned that operators of drones and service providers must strictly obey the directive throughout the visit.
The police boss also outlawed knockouts and other explosive, sound-producing devices in the state capital. He noted that the ban aims to prevent unnecessary panic and avoid distracting security operatives, allowing them to focus on genuine safety concerns.
To ease the movement of the official convoy, the command announced temporary traffic diversions across several major corridors. The affected areas include Airport Road, Shelter Afrique Junction, Oron Road, Nung Oku Junction, Mbierebe Junction, and the vicinity of the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium. Drivers have been urged to remain patient, cooperate with security officers, and use alternative roads.
During his stop in Uyo, President Tinubu is expected to inaugurate several completed facilities delivered under Governor Umo Eno’s administration. These include the new International Terminal Building at Victor Attah International Airport, an International Airport Hospital, the Ibom Aviation Village, and the ARISE Palm Resort.
The president will also inaugurate the Airport-Okopedi Road spanning Nsit Atai and Okobo Local Government Areas, Ring Road 3, the AKWA-GIS Office Complex, and a Command and Control Centre. To mark the arrival, Governor Eno declared Friday a work-free day to allow residents to participate in the welcome reception.
Following his schedule in Uyo, President Tinubu will travel to Port Harcourt on Saturday for an APC campaign gathering.
