As the Yuletide season draws near, the Police Commands in Imo and Plateau states have imposed a sweeping ban on the sale, distribution and use of fireworks and knockouts, citing security and public safety concerns.
The Imo command, in a statement posted on X and signed by its Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Okoye Henry, on Sunday, said it has “reiterated the total ban on the sale, distribution, and use of fireworks, knockouts, and all forms of pyrotechnics across the state.”
According to the command, the prohibition has become necessary to prevent avoidable injuries, fire outbreaks and public disturbances often associated with the festive period.
It also warned that offenders will face arrest and prosecution.
The statement further cautioned residents that “anyone found selling, possessing, or using pyrotechnics, whether during public holidays, community events, or private celebrations, will be arrested and prosecuted.
“Regular patrols and targeted operations will be intensified to ensure full compliance with this directive.”
Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Aboki Danjuma, appealed for public cooperation and encouraged residents to support security efforts by reporting illegal activities involving fireworks.
He assured that adequate measures have been deployed to guarantee a “safe and peaceful Yuletide.”
In Plateau State, the police authorities issued a similar directive, announcing a statewide ban on knockouts and fireworks ahead of Christmas and New Year celebrations.
In a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Alfred Alabo, the command said the decision was taken “in the interest of public safety and security” during the festive period. It noted that fireworks have been known to trigger panic and disrupt public peace.
According to the command, “The use of knockouts and fireworks has been known to create unnecessary panic, thereby disturbing public peace.”
It added that “anyone found violating this order by selling, using, or in possession of knockout articles and fireworks will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.”
Plateau Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina, urged parents, guardians and religious leaders to caution their wards and members, stressing that adherence to the directive would help maintain “a peaceful and safe environment for all before, during and after the festive season.”
Both commands restated their commitment to sustaining peace and order during the Yuletide.
Last year, several states including Kwara, Ogun, Rivers, the FCT and Delta also placed restrictions on fireworks during the Christmas and New Year celebrations as part of measures to curb crime and enhance public safety.