‘They sound like gunshots’ — Police ban fireworks during yuletide in Ogun

The police command in Ogun has warned residents of the state against the use of fireworks and explosives during the Christmas season. 

Omolola Odutola, Ogun police spokesperson, in a statement on Monday, said the command has received reports that some residents can no longer differentiate between gunshots and fireworks.

Odutola said residents must respect the rights and privacy of others during the celebrations.

The Ogun police spokesperson disclosed that Abiodun Alamutu, the state commissioner, has banned the use of fireworks and explosives.

“The state police command is inundated with report indices coming from residents since Nov. 1, especially in Sagamu, Ijebu-Ode, Ikenne and Sango Ota, over the indiscriminate use of dangerous fireworks popularly called “banga”,” she said.

“They said that the deafening sound of it threatens the state of peace of mind and triggering anxiety of residents especially amid security concerns.

“The commissioner of police, Abiodun Alamutu, has henceforth declared a ban on indiscriminate use of explosive fireworks in Ogun State due to residents and the community inability to differentiate between gunshots and genuine fireworks.”

Odutola said those who breached the ban will be made to face the wrath of the law.