Katsina State Governor, , has signed an Executive Order banning the sale, purchase, transportation and storage of petroleum products in jerrycans across the state as part of efforts to curb banditry and kidnapping.

The governor announced the measures after an emergency security meeting with security agencies, traditional rulers and other stakeholders, according to a statement issued by his spokesperson, Ibrahim Mohammed.

The order also prohibits the use of motorcycles in Matazu and Musawa Local Government Areas, while all Point of Sale (POS) businesses and commercial phone charging centres in the two council areas have been directed to shut down immediately.

Mohammed said the restrictions were introduced following security assessments indicating that some of the affected services were being exploited by criminal groups operating in parts of the state.

He explained that the statewide ban on petroleum products in jerrycans is intended to prevent fuel supplies from reaching criminal elements hiding in remote locations.

According to the statement, the closure of POS outlets and commercial phone charging points in Matazu and Musawa is aimed at disrupting support systems allegedly used by bandits and kidnappers.

The government also said the motorcycle ban in the two local government areas is expected to limit the mobility of criminal groups, many of whom rely on motorcycles to carry out attacks and evade security operatives.

Governor Radda reiterated that protecting lives and property remains a top priority of his administration and pledged continued collaboration with security agencies to restore peace in affected communities.

He urged residents to comply with the directives and assist security agencies with credible information that could aid ongoing operations. The governor also warned that violators of the order would face appropriate sanctions.

The state government maintained that the measures form part of broader efforts to create a safer environment for residents and support economic and social activities across Katsina.

Meanwhile, Governor Radda visited Mrs. Amina Rabe Abubakar, wife of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd.), at the Federal Teaching Hospital in Katsina following her rescue from captivity.

Mrs. Abubakar was freed by security operatives during an operation conducted in a rural community in Matazu Local Government Area on Monday evening.

Her husband reportedly died while being held by bandits and was buried in Katsina on July 13 in accordance with Islamic rites.

During the visit, the governor commended personnel of the Nigerian Army and troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA for their role in the rescue mission, describing their actions as a demonstration of courage and professionalism.

He said the efforts of security operatives continue to inspire confidence among residents and reaffirm the government’s commitment to tackling insecurity in the state.