Amidst security concerns arising from the unabated cult killings in Ogun State, especially in Sagamu and its environs, the Police Command on Monday night issued stern warning against the use of fireworks popularly called "banga" saying that any residents caught henceforth would be severely dealt with.
The police, according to the statement issued by its Spokesperson, SP Omolola Odutola, disclosed that the warning became imperative following several complaints from the residents of the state.
The police explained further that residents of the state particularly from Sagamu, Ikenne, Ijebu Ode, Sango Ota among others said that that the deafening sound of "banga" which is like that of a gun threatens their peace, triggering anxiety amidst security concerns
The statement said that though the police is aware that the use of fireworks popularly called "banga" is deeply ingrained in tradition as an essential preparation of the end of year celebrations but the residents must do away from this tradition that is now aggravating the security concerns in the state.
"The statement partly reads "Ogun State Police Command is inundated with report indices coming from residents since the 1st of November 2023 especially in Sagamu, Ijebu Ode, Ikenne and Sango Ota, over the indiscriminate use of dangerous fireworks popularly called "banga" that the deafening sound of it threatens the state of peace of mind, triggering anxiety of residents especially amid security concerns expressed by residents in Ogun State
"Following these reports of apprehension before the Ogun State Police Command, the Commissioner of Police, CP Alamutu Abiodun has henceforth declared a ban on indiscriminate use of explosive fireworks in Ogun State upholding the distressing complaints from residents and the community about their inability to differentiate between gunshots and genuine fireworks, that residents have been throwing causing sleepless night, constant terror from the deafening bang of these dangerous explosives.
"The Ogun State Police Command is aware that displays of fireworks is deeply ingrained in tradition as an essential preparation of the end of year celebrations.
"Residents are enjoined to respect the privacy and quiet of other neighbours. Sequel to the state of security, the Commissioner of Police, CP Alamutu Abiodun is issuing a stern warning to young persons who may want to flout this directive, does so at their peril and further warns that “banga” is criminalized as punitive sanctions will accompany deliberate violations in accordance with extant laws".
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