From Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Plateau State Police Command has announced a series of security restrictions aimed at ensuring a peaceful Christmas and New Year celebration across the state.
From December 23, 2024, to January 3, 2025, certain activities in the local government areas of Bassa, Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Bokkos, and Mangu will be restricted between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. daily.
The restrictions include the prohibition of night grazing by herders, night farming by farmers, late-night operations of beer parlours, night mining activities, and the operation of commercial motorcycles (Okadas).
The ban also extends to the use of commercial tricycles, or “Keke Napep,” within the Jos-Bukuru metropolis on December 25-26, 2024, and January 1, 2025.
The Commissioner of Police for Plateau State, CP Emmanuel Olugbemiga Adesina, disclosed these measures during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Police Officers Mess in Jos on Friday.
The meeting was convened as part of the police’s proactive efforts to ensure a smooth and secure festive season for residents.
In his statement, CP Adesina emphasized that the restrictions are essential to maintaining peace and order during the holiday period.
He noted that the police had been working closely with local government chairpersons, military units, and other security agencies to guarantee the safety of citizens across all 17 local government areas of the state.
“We have put in place effective security arrangements and made the necessary deployments to all parts of the state. Our collaboration with the military and other agencies is aimed at ensuring that there are no threats to the peace and security that Plateau residents currently enjoy,” CP Adesina said.
The Commissioner also reiterated the continued ban on commercial motorcycles, emphasizing that it remains in effect throughout the state.
He called on the public to cooperate with security agencies and adhere to the restrictions, stressing that they are designed to protect the collective well-being of all Plateau residents.
“We regret any inconvenience that these measures may cause, but they are necessary for the peace and security of all residents. Our policies are not meant to intimidate anyone, but to ensure a peaceful holiday season for everyone,” CP Adesina added.
The Plateau State Police Command urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities as the festive period approaches.