From SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri –
Borno State Police Command has restricted movements during the Ediel Kabir sallah congregational special prayers on Friday, July 31 across the state in order to ensure a smooth and hitch free worshiping to mark the end of 2020 Pilgrimage.
The restriction of movement also includes horse riding,, donkey riding, tricycles popular known as Keke Napep, bicycles, wheelbarrows, horses, donkeys and camels from movement from 6 am to 12 noon when worshippers might have finished their special prayers at various praying grounds within the state capital and it’s environs.
A statement issued Wednesday by the Deputy Director Police Public Relations Officer (DDPPRO), ASP Yakubu Mohammed read in part:
“In view of the forthcoming 2020 Eid El-Kabir celebrations, the Command wishes to reiterate its commitment to ensure hitch free sallah celebration.
“In pursuance therefore, residents of Maiduguri Metropolitan Council and Jere Local Government Area are hereby informed that there will be restriction of vehicular movement.
“The restriction will affect all motor vehicles, tricycles, bicycles, wheelbarrows, horses, Donkeys and Camels etc.
“Duration is from 6am to 12 noon of 31st July, 2020 when worshippers might have finished their prayers.
“Worshippers are therefore advised to pray at praying grounds nearest their homes. They are equally advised to arrive early at their respective praying grounds for security screening to avoid eleventh hour rush/stampede.
“It is pertinent to state that no bags, weapons, or sharp objects of any kind will be allowed into the praying grounds.
“Parents/Guardians are reminded to be mindful of their children/wards at the praying grounds to avoid incidents of missing persons.
“More than this, owing to the ravaging Corona Virus (COVID-19) pandemic, worshippers are advised to wear their face masks, and to observe social distance and other safety measures stipulated by recognized government health authorities failure of which, they may not be allowed into the Eid Praying grounds.
“Worshippers are by this notice advised to cooperate with security agencies deployed to the praying grounds, as this is one of the many measures adopted by the Command to ensure their safety before, during and after the prayers.
“While wishing the Moslem faithful a happy Eid El- Kabir celebrations across the state, the Command urges members of the public to continue to be security conscious and to report all suspicious persons, activities or objects to the police or other relevant security agencies, as the Command is ever ready to deal with any situation.”
