Police ban ‘knockout’, warn okada riders against working late in Benue

Police in Benue State have banned traditional Christmas fireworks. It also warned commercial motorcyclists, popularly called Okada riders from riding beyond the time frame given to them.

The Commissioner of Police Tunji Akingbola said in a statement by the Public Relations Officer, DSP Catherine Sewuese Anene, the ban is geared towards preventing fire outbreaks, panic and public disturbance.

Akingbola, who assured residents of peace throughout the Yuletide festivities and beyond, said they were not happy with the indiscriminate use of fireworks, popularly known as knockouts, in the past one week.

The police chief said, “Criminals can also hide under the guise of fireworks to perpetuate crime. “Similarly, motorcyclists are still seen operating during late hours as against restrictions on motorcycle movement.