Challenges Nigerians Encounter During Xmas

One thing that is certain about Christmas, especially in Nigeria, is the fact that it is a season when the challenges people are grappling with, naturally fizzle out, at least temporarily.
Both the rich and poor are usually carried along by this festive breeze that is expected to keep blowing for the next two weeks when many people would be tied to Christmas festivities.

The movement of people to the hinterlands peaked last week as commuters thronged the various bus terminals to board vehicles to their destinations.

Indeed, the manner Christmas is celebrated in this part of the world is so unique that some people go the extra mile to ensure that they have fun to the fullest.

It is not uncommon for some people to toil, beg, borrow or even steal in order not to be left out of the festive groove. In Nigeria, Christmas is celebrated as if the culture originated from Africa’s most populous nation.

Another thing that distinguishes this season is the fact that it is also a period of uncommon happenings. Interesting, peculiar and weird things are already happening in the buildup to this one-day celebration.

Period of uncommon happenings: In 2013 for instance, a nursing mother, Nike Ademola, was arraigned before an Osogbo Chief Magistrates’ Court for throwing fire-works, an act that was likely to cause a breach of the peace.

Police Prosecutor, Isiaka Ajadi told the court that the accused committed the offence at Orita Elelede area of Osogbo.

Ajadi said that the accused threw the fire-works at one Kehinde Elegbeleye with the aim of injuring her.

He said the act was punishable under Section 249 of the Criminal Code Cap 34 Vol. 11 Laws of Osun State 2003.

Many might wonder what led an adult into such an act. But the truth is that the festive mood cuts across ages, hence, she resorted to throwing bangers around.

Lagos Police command bans fire-works

Already, the Lagos State Police Command has banned the use of fire-works in the state during the yuletide season. The Force threatened to deal with any defaulter within the ambits of the law.

Consequently, the Police have called on parents and guardians to warn their children and wards to desist from the use of fireworks, especially banger.

The Command’s boss, Mr Cornelius Aderanti, in a statement signed by his spokesman, Kenneth Nwosu, explained that the ban was declared with a view to ensuring public safety and averting all manner of dangers associated with its use during the harmattan season.

“The state Command wishes to inform the general public that the use of fireworks is banned. Parents are therefore advised to warn their wards to desist from its use to avoid being caught on the wrong side of the law as defaulters will be punished”, he said.

While wishing Lagosians a warm Christmas celebration, Aderanti assured of his command’s commitment to ensure their safety during the season.

In spite of this ban, investigations by VF showed that fireworks are still being used across the state.