Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has banned the use of fireworks, including knockouts, bangers, and other explosive materials both in the cities and the villages during the Christmas and New Year festivities.
This is as the Governor has directed the Police and other law enforcement agents to apprehend offenders .
This measure, according to a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information Prince Okey Kanu on Thursday is aimed at safeguarding lives and property.
Prince Kanu explained that the decision was made to prevent criminal elements from exploiting the festive atmosphere to create panic or commit malicious acts.
The statement however directed the Mayors across the state’s 17 local government areas, alongside Traditional Rulers and Town Unions, with enforcing the directive to collaborate with security agencies to maintain order within their respective communities.
The statement read in parts, “The Abia State Government wishes to inform the general public that the use of fireworks, including knockouts, bangers, and other related explosive materials, is hereby banned during the forthcoming Christmas and New Year celebrations.
“This measure has been taken to ensure the safety and security of lives and property within the state during the yuletide season. It is important to note that such activities can be exploited by criminals to create panic and perpetrate heinous crimes under the guise of festive celebrations.
“The state government by this announcement is asking the Mayors in all the 17 local government areas, Traditional Rulers and Town Unions to ensure that this directive is carried out to the letter in their domains in concert with the Security Agencies.
“We urge Abians to comply with this directive as violators will be made to face the full weight of the law.
“The Security Agencies have been directed to ensure strict compliance with this ban by all concerned stakeholders to ensure safety in all our communities during the festive season.
“Abians and residents are therefore enjoined to cooperate with the state government and Security Agencies to celebrate this festive season in safety, peace and harmony.”
Otti Bans Fireworks During Christmas Celebration is first published on The Whistler Newspaper