Kwara lawmakers seek urgent action to stop use of fireworks

The Kwara State House of Assembly has urged Governor AbdulRahman Abdulrazaq to take decisive action to halt the sale and use of fireworks and “knockouts” in the state, while also calling for extensive public sensitization on the dangers posed by these explosive items.

The call followed a motion raised on the floor by Hon. Rukayat Shittu, who highlighted growing anxiety among residents as the festive season approaches due to the increasing use of loud and potentially harmful fireworks.

Hon. Shittu expressed concern that unchecked use of the explosive devices not only causes fear and panic across communities, but also creates opportunities for security breaches and criminal acts. She called on the governor to direct the Ministry of Communications to embark on an extensive public awareness campaign to educate citizens on the risks associated with fireworks and knockouts, and to encourage safer forms of celebration.

“We urge His Excellency, Governor AbdulRahman Abdulrazaq, to urgently direct the Ministry of Communications to launch widespread sensitization efforts on the dangers of fireworks, as part of comprehensive measures to protect lives and ensure peaceful festivities,” Shittu said during plenary.

In addition to the call for sensitization, the Assembly appealed to security agencies to enforce existing regulations on the sale of fireworks and to clamp down on their illegal distribution and use.

Lawmakers also urged parents and guardians to caution their children against engaging in hazardous activities involving explosive materials, emphasizing that safety should remain a priority for all residents throughout the holiday period.

Governor Abdulrazaq, who has been in office since May 2019, leads the state government and is expected to respond to the Assembly’s request in the coming days.