In a symphony of light and sound, Nigerians are ushering in the Christmas season with a spectacular display of firecrackers, adding an extra layer of joy to the festivities.
Not even the biting economic hardship and a ban on firecrackers by security agencies across many states of the federation can stop them.
The use of firecrackers during Christmas season in Nigeria has become a cherished custom, turning the night skies into a canvas of vibrant colours and echoing laughter. As the crackling sounds fill the air, the aroma of festive delicacies wafts through Nigerian neighbourhoods, adding a delightful layer to the Christmas celebration.
In the days leading up to Christmas, markets are bustling with activities as eager shoppers navigate through stalls adorned with an array of firecrackers and festive decorations. Vibrant fabrics, locally crafted ornaments, and intricately designed fireworks packages contribute to the festive frenzy. The marketplace is a bustling hub where the spirit of Christmas is not just seen but felt in every transaction and exchange.
Whereas the use of firecrackers during Christmas holds cultural and communal significance, fostering a sense of togetherness as individuals come together to celebrate the joyous occasion, innovations in pyrotechnics are adding a modern touch to this age-old tradition. Fireworks displays and sounds are becoming more sophisticated, with synchronized performances set to music and choreographed light shows captivating audiences.
But amid the joyous anticipation of the season’s festivities, security agencies have raised concerns over public safety, prompting a ban on the use of firecrackers in order to reduce the incidence of injuries, fire outbreaks, and other mishaps that could mar the festive season.
In the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, the Police Command warned the residents against the use of knockouts and firecrackers in the territory during the yuletide celebrations.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Josephine Adeh, on 16 December, the command stated that knockouts and fireworks have the capacity to cause panic or apprehension in the general public.
Also, in a statement via X (formerly Twitter) on 17 December, the PPRO, Enugu State Police Command, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, reiterated the ban on the sales and unauthorized use of firecrackers across the state ahead of the yuletide celebrations. The state Police Commissioner, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, stressed that the ban is still “in full force” and advised fireworks dealers and users to “desist forthwith” as “violators would face the full weight of the law”.
“The dangers of setting off explosives like knockouts, bangers and firecrackers include enabling criminals, causing injuries, and fire outbreaks,” Uzuegbu stated.
He explained that the fireworks tend to pose hazards to human life and property during the harmattan season and advised parents to restrain their children from purchasing or igniting fireworks.
Other state police commands, including Delta, Kwara, Osun, among others have also issued similar statements, with the Osun Command also prohibiting street carnivals throughout the state.
But firecrackers have continued to go off in parts of Nigeria despite the ban, with some saying the persistence stemmed from the inability of the security agencies to enforce the ban in the past.
“They say the same thing every year, yet young people and even older people throw knockouts without care during the festive season and no one has been used as an example to deter others, at least as far as I know,” said Nosa Osagiede, a Benin City resident.
“If they truly want to stop it, they should mean it and enforce the ban and also be ready to dispense appropriate punishments to offenders,” he said.
But if the ban on firecrackers by security agencies cannot deter Nigerians, neither can the economic challenges caused by inflation, fuel subsidy removal and floating on the local currency, naira. Some are known go the extra mile, strategically budgeting to ensure that the skies are ablaze with celebratory fireworks.
This is even as the prices of firecrackers have gone up along with prices of other goods and services. The regular knockout bangers currently go for N200, while a pack of ‘bomb’ goes for N5,000. Firecrackers, called rockets in the open market, come in various sizes, sounds and display which also determine the prices. A pack of six sticks of six-sound rockets currently goes for between N12,000 and N15,000; a pack of six sticks of eight-sound rockets goes for between N22,000 and N25,000, while a pack of six sticks of 15-sound rockets sells for between N40,000 and N45,000.
But these exorbitant prices in a time of economic downturn have not dampened the determination of many Nigerians to celebrate the season with firecrackers. Some young people who spoke to The Nigerian Observer said they have been saving for these explosive displays which they view not as luxury but as an integral part of the festive experience.
“What is Christmas without firecrackers?” asked a young man who would not be named.
