The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has banned drone operations, fireworks and other explosive sound-producing devices in Uyo ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s official visit to the state on Friday, November 6, 2026.
The command also announced temporary traffic restrictions on six major routes and strategic locations in the state capital as part of security arrangements for the President’s visit.
The Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, announced the directives during a press briefing at the police headquarters in Ikot Akpan Abia, Uyo, on Thursday.
Azare said the measures were introduced in collaboration with other security agencies to maintain public order, protect strategic locations and ensure the smooth movement of the presidential convoy.
He announced a total restriction on the operation and flying of drones within Uyo metropolis throughout the period of the presidential visit.
According to him, the restriction is intended to protect restricted airspace, safeguard critical locations and prevent possible security breaches.
The police commissioner also prohibited fireworks, knockouts and other explosive sound-producing devices within the state capital, warning that their use could cause unnecessary panic and distract security personnel.
He urged residents, drone operators, service providers and business owners to comply with the directives throughout the President’s visit.
The affected routes and locations include Airport Road, Shelter Afrique Junction, Oron Road, Nung Oku Junction, Mbierebe Junction and Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
The command advised motorists and other road users to avoid the affected corridors during the restriction period and make use of alternative routes to reach their destinations.
Azare also urged motorists to plan their journeys ahead, exercise patience and cooperate with security personnel deployed to manage traffic and maintain order.
He acknowledged that the restrictions could cause temporary inconvenience but said they were necessary to protect lives and property during the presidential visit.
The police commissioner assured residents that the command was working with other security agencies to coordinate intelligence gathering, traffic management and security deployment across strategic locations in the state.
Tinubu is expected to inaugurate several projects executed by the administration of Governor Umo Eno during the visit.
The projects include the new international terminal building at Victor Attah International Airport, an airport hospital, Ibom Aviation Village, Ring Road III, the ARISE Palm Resort, the AkwaGIS Office Complex and a Command and Control Centre.
The President is also scheduled to attend an All Progressives Congress political rally as part of the party’s activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The police have urged residents to remain law-abiding, avoid restricted areas and report suspicious movements or security concerns to the nearest police station.
