Children in Enugu seeking excitement at Christmas can’t blow firecrackers and this is official.
But it is not a rule for the sake of itself, police in the state, through the Enugu State Police Command has clarified.
It said any unaithorised firecracker blown in the state, would attract sanctions, speaking via a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Daniel Ndukwe.
The statement was via X, and stated that the ban remained in the full force
Coming from the Enugu Commissioner of Police CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, and addressed to both firework dealers and users, it urged them to desist forthwith from blowing bangers and firecrackers at Christmas in their interest
READ ALSO: 7 Biggest Nigerian Political Failures In 2023
The police gave reasons as the “dangers of setting off explosives like knockout bangers and firecrackers include enabling criminals, causing injuries, and fire outbreaks”.
According to police officer, it would heighten the tendency of fireworks to enable crime, heighten tension, and pose hazards to human life and property during the dry harmattan winter.
According to the police boss, violators would face the full weight of the law, even as it advised parents to draw the ears of their wards.
CP Uzuegbu ordered Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and Tactical Unit heads to “enforce the ban to the letter” and guarantee watertight security this Christmas season.
“We will not tolerate any security breaches in their jurisdictions,” he asserted.
READ ALSO: Good Governance, Recipe For Nigeria’s Peaceful Co-existence – Stakeholders
The Eagle reports that the police stance may not be unconnected with the increasing incidences of violence of different kinds, including faceoff with security agencies by organisations agitating marginalisation in the whole of the Southeast region.
It is fired that similarity in the sound of firecrackers and real guns may create opportunity for criminals to operate.
Cami Ezenwa is a Writer, Editor, Publicist, Biographer and Journalism Trainer
He has worked with the Daily Times, Daily Independent, Financial Standard and Business Television to mention some.
His ongoing Corporate Communications Master Class training series equips learners with credible hands-on skills for effective Media Relations, Public Communications & Corporate Affairs amongst others.
He can be contacted via 09165809519 or 08180335778.