The Kano State Police Command has expressed concern over the growing trend of roller skating by young people on major highways, road construction sites, bridges, and other restricted areas within Kano metropolis, warning that the practice poses serious dangers to public safety.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday, noting that while roller skating is generally regarded as a recreational activity, engaging in it on busy roads and other unsafe locations exposes participants and motorists to significant risks.
According to him, the Command has observed with concern that some juveniles have adopted the dangerous habit of latching onto moving vehicles in search of speed and excitement while skating.
The Command notes with dismay that many juveniles are engaging in dangerous acts such as latching onto moving vehicles for speed and thrill, a practice that has already resulted in fatal and life-threatening injuries in other parts of the country,” he said.
Kiyawa explained that major roads are designed primarily for vehicular movement and not recreational activities, stressing that roller skates offer limited control when used on highways, thereby increasing the likelihood of accidents.
He added that the practice not only endangers the lives of skaters but also poses risks to motorists and other road users.
“The habit of latching onto moving vehicles for sport or pleasure exposes young skaters to severe accidents and criminal liability,” he stated.
The Police Command called on parents, guardians, schools, and community leaders to educate and caution children and wards against the dangerous practice.
Kiyawa warned that the Command would not hesitate to arrest and prosecute individuals found obstructing traffic, endangering public safety, or engaging in activities capable of causing harm to themselves or others.
He further urged members of the public to promptly report reckless roller skating activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency communication channels.
The warning comes amid growing concerns over the safety implications of recreational activities being carried out on busy roads and other restricted public spaces across Kano metropolis.