The Kano State Police Command has warned residents, particularly young people, against engaging in roller skating on major highways, bridges, road construction sites, and other restricted areas within Kano metropolis, citing serious safety concerns.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, said the Command had observed with concern the growing trend of roller skating on busy roads and other dangerous locations across the city.
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According to the statement, while roller skating is generally regarded as a recreational activity, carrying it out on highways and roads with fast-moving traffic poses a significant risk to both skaters and other road users.
The Command expressed particular concern over reports that some juveniles engage in the dangerous practice of holding onto moving vehicles to gain speed and excitement, warning that similar acts have resulted in fatal and life-threatening injuries in other parts of the country.
The police identified several risks associated with the practice, including exposure to high-speed traffic, lack of designated skating lanes on most roads and bridges, and reckless behaviour among some young skaters.
“Major roads are designed for vehicular movement, while roller skates provide limited control and braking capability, making collisions with vehicles highly likely,” the statement noted.
The Command further observed that most highways and bridges currently under construction by the Kano State Government do not have dedicated pathways for skating, thereby increasing the danger to both skaters and motorists.
Consequently, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, warned all persons engaging in roller skating on highways, bridges, construction sites, and expressways to stop immediately.
He also called on parents, guardians, schools, and community leaders to educate children and young people on the dangers associated with the practice.
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The police warned that anyone found obstructing traffic, endangering public safety, or engaging in acts capable of causing harm to themselves or others would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The Kano State Police Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and maintaining public order, urging residents to report any reckless skating activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency communication channels.
