ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State on Monday, banned the use of school premises and market places in the 13 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state for political rallies.
Umahi explained that schools and markets were used for heavy open defecation during rallies by politicians, hence the ban.
While blaming the serial killings of residents by unknown gunmen using motorbikes, the Governor banned the use of motorcycles in all parts of the state between 7:00pm and 6:00 am.
The Governor made this known while addressing stakeholders and non-governmental organizations during the 2023 budget estimate and citizen’s inputs that took place at the ecumenical centre, Abakaliki capital of Ebonyi State.
Umahi, who is the chairman, South-East Governors Forum, noted also that the ban on the use of motorcycles in the 13 LGAs, was because it is being used by unknown gunmen to kill innocent citizens, especially as the 2023 general election approaches.
He directed that all political parties must write an application to the commissioner of education, applying to be allowed to use school premises and marketplaces for campaigns.
The Governor insisted that the Ebubeagu security operatives would not be scrapped as was alleged by opposition parties, stressing that the operatives have come to stay.
He said: “We ban the use of motorcycles in any part of the state from 7:00pm to 6:00am. It is for the betterment of your lives. All the unknown gunmen are using motorcycles.
“We have to do everything possible to secure your lives. My good friend was killed yesterday night by unknown gunmen who used motorcycles and spread bullets on him. Many people have lost their lives in this process. We need to sacrifice.”