Yuletide: Enugu Police Issue Safety Advisory To Residents

With the Christmas and New Year celebrations approaching, the Enugu State Police Command has issued a detailed advisory urging residents and travellers to adopt heightened personal security measures, practise safe driving, and ensure responsible conduct throughout the 2026 yuletide season.

The Command, in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Daniel Ndukwe, noted that while the festive period is typically characterised by increased movement and social activities, it also presents opportunities for security breaches and avoidable accidents.

It therefore called on the public to remain proactive and attentive to their surroundings.

Heightened Security Awareness

According to the advisory, residents are encouraged to plan their movements carefully, avoid impulsive decisions, and familiarise themselves with the security situation of both their immediate environment and destinations. The police stressed the need for citizens to report suspicious persons, behaviours or movements promptly to security agencies.

Safe Travel and Transport Measures

The Command advised motorists to ensure their vehicles are properly serviced before embarking on any trip, including checks on tyres, brakes, lighting systems, and engine components.

It urged passengers to patronise only reputable transport companies operating from recognised motor parks, warning that roadside vehicles and unregistered operators expose travellers to criminal risks, including “one-chance” attacks.

The police also appealed to travellers to provide accurate information on manifests and to refrain from publicising their travel plans or locations on social media.

Road Safety: Avoidable Crashes Still a Concern

Emphasising the high rate of road traffic incidents recorded annually during the holidays, the Command urged strict adherence to speed limits and advised motorists to minimise night travel. Drivers were warned against alcohol consumption and distracted driving, particularly texting or handling mobile devices while on the road.

The advisory also reminded motorists to ensure all passengers wear seat belts, comply calmly with officers at checkpoints, and take necessary rest breaks to avoid fatigue.

Securing Homes and Preventing Fire Incidents

Residents preparing to travel were encouraged to secure their homes by activating CCTV systems where available, avoiding the use of predictable hiding spots for spare keys, and entrusting house keys only to trusted persons. The Command stressed the importance of switching off electrical appliances and avoiding the storage of petrol or other flammable substances indoors.

It called for functional fire extinguishers, regularly tested alarms, and accessible emergency contacts to minimise the risk of fire outbreaks.

Family Safety and Responsible Spending

The police urged parents and guardians to pay close attention to children, especially in crowded areas, and to be cautious about who they leave them with during festivities. The Command also advised moderation in spending, noting that financial recklessness during the celebrations often leads to hardship in January.

Emergency Contacts

The Command listed several numbers for emergency response within the state, including the Police Command lines: 08032003702 and 08086671202; the Enugu Command-and-Control Centre: 112, 09134666668, and 09134448093; the PPRO’s line: 08021709005; and the Complaint Response Unit numbers: 09160002486, 07059160602, and 08176255557.

SP Ndukwe concluded by urging residents to commit their activities to God and expressed the Command’s wishes for a peaceful, safe and prosperous 2026 festive season.