Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has announced a total ban on rallies and public gatherings amid rising security concerns across various parts of Kogi state.
The decision, according to a press statement by the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, is effective immediately, and aimed at preventing potential threats to public peace and maintaining law and order.
According to the statement issued on Monday, the government has received credible intelligence indicating plans by some elements to stage violent protests under the guise of political and religious agitations. Additionally, concerns have been raised over unauthorized individuals posing as security personnel to infiltrate the state and cause unrest.
The government’s action follows recent violent incidents in different parts of Kogi. In Kogi Local Government Area, a crisis triggered by fishing activities in the Kasemiya, Katubo, and Umozu Ette communities has resulted in the loss of two lives. In response, the government has suspended all fishing activities in the area until peace is fully restored. Security operatives have been deployed to enforce the directive and restore normalcy.
Similarly, in Enjema District of Ankpa Local Government Area, a communal clash between the Ika-Odele and Ika-Ochala communities has escalated tensions in Kogi East. The state government has deployed security personnel to prevent further violence and sustain ongoing peace negotiations between the warring groups.
Furthermore, intelligence reports indicate that certain individuals in Kogi Central are planning to organize rallies to instigate violence and disrupt public order. To counter this threat, the government has prohibited all forms of rallies and public gatherings until further notice.
In a bid to enhance security monitoring, the Kogi State Government has also introduced new regulations regarding security convoys entering the state. Going forward, any individual or group traveling with security personnel must obtain prior clearance from the respective state commands of the deploying agencies. This measure is intended to prevent unauthorized armed movements and ensure that only duly accredited security operatives operate within the state.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has also directed all local government chairmen to take responsibility for security within their domains. He urged community leaders and opinion shapers to support the government’s peace initiatives and discourage actions that could destabilize the state.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, the Kogi State Government has tasked the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (Rtd), with coordinating efforts alongside security agencies to enforce these new directives. Law enforcement agencies have been placed on high alert to ensure strict compliance.
Residents are encouraged to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and cooperative with security authorities. The government also urges citizens to report any suspicious activities, emphasizing that these measures are temporary and necessary to sustain peace in the state.
“The safety and well-being of the people remain our top priority, and any attempt to undermine the peace and stability of Kogi State will be met with the full force of the law,” the statement concluded.
