Katsina State Governor, Dr Dikko Radda, has issued an Executive Order banning the sale, purchase, transportation, and storage of petroleum products in jerrycans across the state. The announcement was made through a statement by the governor's spokesperson, Ibrahim Mohammed, following an emergency security meeting held late Monday with security agencies, traditional rulers, and other key stakeholders.
Additional Restrictions in Matazu and Musawa
The Executive Order also prohibits the use of motorcycles and Point of Sale (POS) businesses in Matazu and Musawa Local Government Areas. Furthermore, all commercial phone charging points in these two council areas are banned. According to Mohammed, these measures aim to strengthen security and protect lives and property, particularly in the ongoing fight against banditry and kidnapping.
“As part of the Executive Order, the sale, purchase, transportation, and storage of petroleum products in jerrycans have been banned across Katsina State with immediate effect. The measure is designed to prevent the diversion of fuel supplies to criminal elements operating in remote locations,” Mohammed stated.
He added, “The governor also approved the immediate closure of all Point of Sale (POS) businesses and commercial phone charging points in Matazu and Musawa Local Government Areas. Security assessments have shown that these facilities are being exploited by criminal networks to facilitate their activities.”
“In addition, the use of motorcycles has been banned throughout Matazu and Musawa Local Government Areas. The restriction is intended to disrupt the movement and operational activities of bandits and kidnappers who often rely on motorcycles for transportation,” the statement continued.
Governor's Commitment to Security
Governor Radda emphasized that the safety of citizens remains the highest priority of his administration. He assured residents that the government will continue to work closely with security agencies to restore peace and stability in all parts of the state. He called on residents to support security efforts by fully complying with the directives and providing useful information to security agencies whenever necessary. The state government warned that defaulters will not be treated leniently.
The Katsina State Government remains committed to taking all lawful and necessary measures to ensure that communities across the state remain safe, secure, and conducive for economic and social activities.
Governor Visits Rescued Kidnap Victim
In a related development, Governor Radda visited Mrs Amina Rabe Abubakar, wife of the late Maj.-Gen. Rabe Abubakar (retd.), at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina. Mrs Abubakar was rescued by security operatives during an operation in a rural community in Matazu Local Government Area on Monday evening. Her husband reportedly died while in bandits' captivity and was buried according to Islamic rites on July 13 in Katsina metropolis.
Radda commended officers of the Nigerian Army for their professionalism and dedication during the rescue operation. He said personnel of Operation FANSAN YANMA, who participated in the operation, demonstrated courage and professionalism that continue to inspire hope among residents of the state.
