Yuletide: Police ban fireworks in Imo, Plateau

The Imo and Plateau State Police Commands have announced a total ban on the sale, distribution and use of fireworks and knockouts as the Christmas and New Year celebrations approach.

Both commands said the measure is aimed at preventing injuries, fires and disturbances during the festive period.

In a statement posted on X, signed by the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Okoye Henry, on Sunday, the Imo State Police Command said it has “reiterated the total ban on the sale, distribution, and use of fireworks, knockouts, and all forms of pyrotechnics across the state.”

It added that the ban is crucial for public safety and that violators will be arrested and prosecuted.

The command warned 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.”

The Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Aboki Danjuma, urged residents to cooperate with security operatives and report illegal activities involving fireworks, appreciating “the continuous support of the public in maintaining peace and safety.”

The command also assured all that enhanced security measures have been put in place for a “safe and peaceful Yuletide.”

Similarly, the Plateau State Police Command on Saturday announced a statewide ban on the sale and use of knockouts and fireworks

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” ahead of the festive celebrations.

The command noted that fireworks often create panic and disturb public peace.

“The use of knockouts and fireworks has been known to create unnecessary panic, thereby disturbing public peace,” it said.

It warned 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.”

The state Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina, urged parents, guardians and religious leaders to warn their children and congregations against violating the directive, adding that their cooperation would help ensure “a peaceful and safe environment for all before, during and after the festive season.”

Both commands reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace, safety and security throughout the Yuletide.

report that during the 2024 Christmas and New Year festive season, several state police commands — including Kwara, Ogun, Rivers, the FCT and Delta — imposed bans on the sale, use and display of fireworks and knockouts.

The measures were introduced to curb crime and maintain safety during the yuletide.