Police ban sale, use of knockouts, fireworks in Plateau

The Plateau State Police Command has banned the sale and use of knockouts and fireworks across the state as the festive season approaches.

The directive was issued to prevent panic, enhance public safety, and maintain order during celebrations.

In a statement released by Alfred Alabo, the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, made available to journalists on Sunday in Jos, said the decision became necessary following recurring concerns over the misuse of fireworks, which often causes unnecessary fear among residents.

According to the Command, “anyone found selling, using, or in possession of knockouts and fireworks will be arrested and prosecuted”.

The police warned that it will take decisive action against violators to safeguard peace in communities.

The police urged parents to caution their children and wards against engaging in the sale or use of the prohibited items.

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The statement emphasised that compliance would help prevent disruptions to public peace during the festive period.

“The Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Olugbemiga Adesina, also appealed to religious leaders to advise their congregation members to obey the ban. He noted that responsible leadership from faith communities would contribute significantly to maintaining safety across the state,” the statement said.

The police reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and security before, during, and after the festive season. It urged the public to cooperate fully to ensure a hitch-free period of celebration.

Nathaniel Gbaoron

Nathaniel E. Gbaoron is the Plateau State correspondent for BusinessDay and a seasoned journalist with a decade of experience covering sub-national affairs across Taraba, Adamawa, Nasarawa, Benue, Plateau, and other states. He holds both National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) in Mass Communication from Fidel Polytechnic, Gboko. Over the years, he has participated in numerous media trainings and workshops spanning various areas of reporting, strengthening his expertise in economic and political reporting, community-level governance, development stories, and conflict-sensitive journalism. He is a member of Correspondent Chapel in Plateau state, a member of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), he is also a Rotarian and a member of Plateau Club 1921.