As part of security measures ahead of the Eid-el-Fitr festivity, the Plateau police command has closed the Rukuba and Polo grounds usually used as Muslim praying ground during the festivity.
Police Commissioner Emmanuel Ayeni said in a statement in Jos on Thursday, that the step was one of the measures agreed to, after series of security meetings with religious and community leaders.
“Considering the security risk, an alternative ground has been provided at the Bauchi road motor park,’’ Ayeni explained.
The statement added that the Abattoir-Airforce roundabout road would be closed to traffic on Sallah day, while traffic would be diverted to other routes.
Ayeni particularly warned youths against brandishing dangerous weapons and the use of inflammatory statements during the prayers, and warned that anyone caught would face the full wrath of the law.
The police boss assured Plateau residents of full protection throughout the activity, and called for cooperation from everybody toward a peaceful ceremony.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that attempts by the Muslim faithful to use both grounds located in predominantly Christian settlements for Sallah prayers last year, resulted into violence that left scores dead. (NAN)