Yuletide: Police, NSCDC tighten security, ban fireworks

The Nigerian Police have deployed personnel across states, in preparation for the Yuletide and assured residents of a peaceful celebration.

This comes as state commands imposed a ban on fireworks and explosives for the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Several commands of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps also deployed its men and officers across states to bolster the security and safety of public infrastructure.

The Kwara command announced the security guidelines in a statement signed on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Toun Ejire-Adeyemi, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Mr Victor Olaiya.

It also restricted commercial motorcycles and tricycles to operating hours between 6 am and 9 pm during the festivities.

The statement read, “The Commissioner of Police, CP Victor Olaiya, Kwara State command, wishes to extend his warm greetings to all residents as we approach the festive season of Christmas and New Year.

“As we look forward to a season filled with joy and celebrations, we must also prioritise the safety and security of everyone within our dear state of Harmony.

“To this end, the following measures and guidelines are hereby reiterated: Prohibition of fireworks and explosives:

The use, sale, or distribution of fireworks, bangers, and other explosive devices is strictly prohibited.

“These items pose serious security and safety risks, including the potential to create panic and serve as a cover for criminal activities. Violators will face the full wrath of the law.

“Restriction on okada and Keke NAPEP movement: The restriction on the movement of motorcycles (okada) and tricycles (Keke NAPEP) between the hours of 9:00 pm and 6:00 am remains in full force. This measure is designed to curtail criminal activities and ensure public safety.”

On the general security measures, the police advised citizens to avoid travelling late at night or alone in secluded areas, while asking residents to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities or persons to the nearest security agency.

It also appealed to the people to secure their homes and vehicles properly, especially when attending social functions.

“For emergencies or to report suspicious activities, please contact the Kwara Control Room via the following numbers: 08125275046 or 07032069501,” the statement said.

The state Commandant of the NSCDC, Dr Umar Muhammed, ordered the deployment of 2,500 officers and men of the corps to protect critical national assets and infrastructure.

The deployed officers are also to ensure the safety of residents across the state for a peaceful and secure Yuletide celebration.

A statement by the Public Relations Officer of NSCDC, Kwara State command, Ayoola Michael, said the deployed officers, drawn from the Armed Squad Unit, Operation Harmony, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive Unit, Anti-Vandal Unit, and other specialised units, had been evenly and strategically deployed across the 16 local government areas in the state.

“Additionally, plainclothes operatives from the Intelligence and Investigation Department have been deployed for round-the-clock surveillance, as well as overt and covert patrols of recreational and religious centres, marketplaces, and locations of critical government assets.

It warned criminal elements planning to vandalise government property to refrain from such acts as offenders would face severe legal repercussions, including a 21-year jail term without the option of a fine, in accordance with the law.

The Sokoto State police command, under the leadership of Ahmed Musa, assured residents of the state a hitch-free celebration.

A statement made available to newsmen by the command’s PPRO on Tuesday, said, “The command, in collaboration with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders, is dedicated to ensuring a peaceful festive period.

“To this end, the commissioner of police has mandated the deployment of sufficient personnel, including both conventional police and tactical teams, along with necessary logistics to guarantee comprehensive security at all strategic locations across the state.

“All personnel assigned to this important task have been given explicit instructions to maintain a professional and civil demeanour while executing their duties effectively.”

It added that security measures had been established to facilitate a seamless celebration.

“Additionally, the commissioner has directed all area commanders, departmental heads, and divisional police officers to implement both overt and covert security operations to protect lives and property,” the statement added.

The police boss promised that security coverage would be provided at all places of worship and recreational centres, while proactive measures would be taken at identified trouble spots.

“In the event of any emergencies before, during, or after the festive period, members of the public are encouraged to visit the nearest police station and report any incident. Emergency contact numbers are available as follows: 08032345167, 08032861946,” the statement concluded.

The NSCDC in Abia State deployed 1,550 officers and men to ensure a safe and secure environment for the Yuletide season in the state.

Also, the state police command deployed personnel throughout the state to safeguard the safety and well-being of its residents.

According to the State Commandant of NSCDC, Akinsola Aderemin, in a statement issued by the PRO, Doreen Udugwu, said “the deployment is aimed at ensuring the general public enjoys the holidays in peace.”

In a statement by the PPRO, Maureen Chinaka, the police command said “There will be raids on recognised high-risk areas, unfinished structures, stop-and-search operations, vehicular/foot patrols, and collaborative efforts among sister security agencies in the state to ensure a smooth and secure festive period for the inhabitants of Abia State before, during, and after the Christmas celebration.”

The CP, Danladi Isa, restated the ban on the sale or use of fireworks (knockouts) in the state, citing potential threats to public peace and security.

In Enugu State, the CP, Kanayo Uzuegbu, directed the deployment of human, operational, intelligence, and traffic management resources for the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

A statement on Tuesday by the command’s PPRO, Daniel Ndukwe, said the initiative was to ensure the safety and security of residents, travellers, and returnees celebrating the season in Enugu State.

The statement instructed area commanders, DPOs and heads of operational and tactical units to intensify visibility patrols within their jurisdictions, especially on highways, streets, places of worship, and event venues.

“CP Kanayo also calls for vigilance and adherence to the law, urging the public to report suspicious activities or criminal behaviour to the nearest police station.

“Alternatively, reports can be made via the following phone numbers: 08032003702, 08086671202, or 08098880172, or through email at [email protected],” the statement read.