Katsina, Nigeria — The Katsina State Government has banned the sale, purchase, transportation and storage of petroleum products in jerrycans across the state with immediate effect, as part of new security measures aimed at curbing banditry and kidnapping.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda announced the directive on Monday after an emergency security meeting with security agencies, traditional rulers and other stakeholders at the Government House in Katsina.
He said the decision was taken to prevent the diversion of fuel supplies to criminal elements operating in remote areas of the state.
“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,” Radda said. “The measure is designed to prevent the diversion of fuel supplies to criminal elements operating in remote locations.”
The governor also approved the immediate closure of Point of Sale (POS) businesses and commercial phone charging centres in Matazu and Musawa Local Government Areas, citing intelligence that they were being exploited by criminal networks.
In addition, the use of motorcycles has been banned in the two local government areas, a move authorities say is intended to disrupt the movement and operations of armed groups who often rely on motorcycles for mobility.
Radda stressed that the safety of residents remains the top priority of his administration, assuring that government will continue to work closely with security agencies to restore peace across the state.
He urged residents to comply fully with the new directives and to support security operations by providing useful intelligence to law enforcement agencies.
“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,” he added.
The government warned that violators of the new executive order will face strict enforcement measures.
