Enugu State Police Commissioner, Kanayo Uzuegbu, has reaffirmed the ban on the sale and unauthorized use of fireworks, popularly known as “knockout” or “banger,” in the state. The State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, conveyed the commissioner’s message in a statement issued on Sunday in Enugu.
According to the commissioner, the prohibition of fireworks remains in force due to the associated risks, such as criminals exploiting them for unlawful activities and the potential for tension and danger. He emphasized the heightened threat during the harmattan season, as fireworks could lead to bodily injuries and fire outbreaks.
Commissioner Uzuegbu urged both dealers and users of fireworks to cease their activities immediately. He issued a warning that violators, including parents and guardians who allow their children to engage in such activities, would face legal consequences. The directive was extended to Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and Heads of Tactical Units to ensure strict enforcement of the ban.
In a separate development, the Oriental Lawyers for Justice, a prominent non-governmental organization in the Southeast, called on the Supreme Court to deliver justice in the contested Enugu State governorship election held on March 18. The organization, led by Barrister John Bosco Aninwene and spokesperson Mrs. Ifeoma Ejike, expressed dissatisfaction with the previous judgments from the Election Petitions Tribunal and the Court of Appeal, describing them as lacking justice.
The lawyers highlighted the expectation of Enugu residents for justice, emphasizing the Supreme Court’s role as the final arbiter and symbol of divine justice, fairness, and equity. They argued that the lower courts’ decisions could be excused, given their lack of finality, and asserted that there was overwhelming evidence favoring the Labour Party in the elections.
The lawyers criticized the PDP candidate, Peter Mbah, accusing him of forging his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificate and engaging in controversial actions to secure victory. They called attention to evidence of overvoting in Mbah’s hometown and expressed hope that the Supreme Court would rectify the perceived miscarriage of justice.
