The Nigeria Police Force has announced the ban on fireworks within the zone during and after the Christmas and New Year celebration.
This was disclosed by the AIG in charge of Zone 5, (comprising Edo and Delta) Lawan Jimeta, in a statement by DSP Tijani Momoh, Zonal Police Public Relations Officer, on Saturday in Abuja.
According to Jimeta, the devices are explosive and can cause harm to lives and properties as well as disturb public peace and cause unnecessary panic to residents of the zone.
“In view of the above, the zone hereby appeals to the general public, parents and guardians alike, to desist from detonating or lighting these devices.
“Parents are to encourage their children and wards against the purchase or use of these items.
“Retailers of these devices are equally advised and warned to stop the sale, as any person or group of persons found flouting this order will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly,” he said.
The AIG also used the medium to extend his Yuletide greetings to the Christian faithful and others in the zone as they celebrate Christmas.
He revealed that the zone had emplaced adequate security measures regarding men and material resources to ensure a hitch-free and seamless Yuletide celebration.
Jimeta further enjoined all to mark the festivities with moderation while maintaining security consciousness of their environment at all times.
“Suspicious persons or movements should be reported to the nearest Police Station immediately,” he advised.