Police ban drones, fireworks ahead of Tinubu’s Akwa Ibom visit

From Isaac Job, Uyo

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has announced a ban on drone operations, fireworks and other explosive sound-producing devices in Uyo ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s official visit to the state, while imposing temporary traffic restrictions on major roads and strategic locations within the state capital.

Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, who disclosed the security arrangements at a press conference at the command headquarters in Ikot Akpan Abia, Uyo, said the measures were intended to protect the President, maintain public order and ensure the smooth movement of his convoy during the one-day visit.

Azare explained that the command, in collaboration with other security agencies, had strengthened security across the state, with particular attention to locations scheduled to host presidential engagements.

“The Command, in collaboration with other relevant security agencies, has put in place robust security arrangements to guarantee a peaceful, orderly and hitch-free Presidential visit,” he said.

The police commissioner warned that the flying of drones within Uyo metropolis during the presidential visit would not be tolerated, describing the restriction as a preventive security measure.

“The restriction is a proactive security measure intended to safeguard restricted airspace, protect critical locations and prevent any potential security breach,” he stated.

He urged drone operators, service providers and members of the public to comply strictly with the directive.

“Members of the public, drone operators and relevant service providers are therefore advised to strictly comply with this directive,” he said.

Azare also announced a ban on fireworks, knockouts and other explosive sound-producing devices within the state capital during the visit.

He explained that the command had imposed temporary traffic restrictions on designated roads and strategic locations to facilitate the movement of the presidential convoy and ensure effective security coverage.

Affected routes include the Victor Attah International Airport Road, Shelter Afrique Junction, Oron Road, Nung Oku Junction, Mbierebe Junction and the approaches to Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, where an APC rally is scheduled to take place.

“To ensure the seamless movement of the Presidential convoy and effective security coverage, the Command has announced temporary restrictions on public access to designated routes and strategic locations within Uyo metropolis,” Azare said.

He advised residents to avoid affected routes during the restrictions and make use of alternative roads.

“Members of the public are advised to avoid these routes during the period of restriction and make adequate use of alternative routes to reach their destinations.

“Motorists are particularly urged to plan their journeys ahead, exercise patience and cooperate fully with traffic and security personnel deployed along the affected corridors,” he stated.

The police commissioner assured residents that the measures were designed to ensure a peaceful presidential visit and minimise security risks during the scheduled engagements.

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