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.

A statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Ibrahim Mohammed, said the governor announced the measures following an emergency security meeting held late Monday with security agencies, traditional rulers, and other key stakeholders.

According to the statement, the Executive Order also bans the use of motorcycles as well as Point of Sale (POS) businesses in Matazu and Musawa Local Government Areas.
The order further prohibits all commercial phone charging points in the two council areas.

Mohammed explained that the measures are aimed at strengthening security and protecting lives and property across the state, 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.

“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.

“Governor Radda stated that the safety of citizens remains the highest priority of his administration and 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 complying fully with the directives and providing useful information to security agencies whenever necessary. More importantly, the state government will not treat defaulters of these directives with kid gloves.

“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,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, Governor Radda has 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.