The Kwara State House of Assembly has urged the state government to ban the sale, distribution, and use of fireworks and “knockouts” during festive periods, citing rising security concerns across the state.
The motion, titled “The Need to Address the Use of Knockouts and Fireworks During the Festive Season as a Security Countermeasure,” was moved on Wednesday by Ogunniyi David during plenary.
While presenting the motion, Ogunniyi said the initiative was prompted by the difficulty security agencies face in distinguishing loud celebratory explosions from gunshots, a situation he said often delays timely emergency responses.
“Prioritising security over tradition is essential; a ban would be a significant step toward safeguarding lives and property during this festive season,” he said.
Other lawmakers who spoke on the issue also expressed concern that the unauthorised use of fireworks can create panic, confusion, and unnecessary tension among residents, particularly during peak festive celebrations.
The Speaker of the Kwara Assembly, Yakubu Danladi-Salihu, while reading the resolution of the House, urged Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to direct the Ministry of Communications to embark on extensive public sensitisation on the dangers and legal implications of fireworks use.
The Kwara Assembly’s call aligns with similar moves across Nigeria this yuletide season, where several state police commands have banned the use, sale, and display of fireworks over security and safety concerns.
For instance, the Osun State Police have prohibited fireworks during the Christmas and New Year period, noting that explosive sounds could easily be mistaken for gunshots and create unnecessary panic.
Similarly, Nasarawa and Delta State Police Commands have reiterated bans on fireworks and knockouts, warning that criminal elements may exploit their loud explosions to commit offences and urging residents to refrain from selling or using such pyrotechnics.
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