The Nigerian Police Force has announced a ban on the use of fireworks during and after the yuletide season – Christmas and New Year celebrations across the country.
This was made known on Saturday by Lawan Jimeta, the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of zone 5 which comprises Edo and Delta states.
The announcement was made in a statement by the Zonal Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Tijani Momoh.
The AIG, according to the statement, said that the devices are explosive that can cause harm to lives and properties as well as disturb public peace and cause unnecessary panic among residents of the zone.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Jimeta noted that “in view of the above, the zone hereby appeals to the general public, parents and guardians alike to desist from detonating or lighting these devices.
“Parents are to encourage their children and wards against the purchase or use of these items.
“Retailers of these devices are equally advised and warned to stop the sale, as any person or group of persons found flouting this order will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.”
He further assured the residents within the zone that the zonal command was poised to guarantee the safety and security of lives and properties throughout the festive period.
The AIG also revealed that the zone had put in place adequate security measures in terms of men and material resources to ensure a hitch-free and seamless Yuletide celebration.
He therefore enjoined members of the public to mark the festivities with moderation, while maintaining security consciousness of their environment at all times, as he advised that “Suspicious persons or movements should be reported to the nearest Police Station immediately.”
