The Kogi State Government has imposed a total ban on all public rallies and gatherings, citing increasing security concerns across the state.
The decision, Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo claimed, is in “response to credible intelligence reports about planned rallies potentially disrupting public peace, emphasizes the state’s commitment to ensuring residents’ safety.”
The statement claimed that the government is taking proactive measures to address rising tensions in various parts of the state but observers said the move is designed to stop Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from visiting her constituency.
In Kogi West, violent clashes over fishing activities in Kasemiya, Katubo, and Umozu Ette, all in Kogi Local Government Area, have resulted in two fatalities.
As a result, the government has suspended all fishing activities in the affected areas until peace is fully restored, with security forces deployed to restore order.
In Kogi East, a communal clash between the Ika-Odele and Ika Ochala communities in Enjema District of Ankpa Local Government Area has further threatened peace.
The state government is facilitating peace talks and has deployed security personnel to quell the unrest and prevent further loss of lives, Faneo said.
The state also raised concerns about plans for violent rallies in Kogi Central, where certain groups are reportedly preparing to stage protests under the guise of political and religious agitation.
In light of this, the government has decided to impose an immediate ban on all public gatherings that could lead to unrest or compromise public safety.
Meanwhile, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is expected to hold a rally Tuesday in Kogi State, raising further concerns among authorities regarding potential unrest.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, in consultation with the Kogi State Traditional Council, has been working to address security challenges.
The council, led by the Attah of Igala has commended the governor’s proactive approach and pledged support for ongoing peace efforts.
Additionally, new regulations require anyone entering Kogi State with a convoy of security personnel to first obtain clearance from state security agencies.
This move aims to prevent unauthorized individuals from posing as security personnel and creating instability.
Local government chairmen have been directed to oversee security in their respective areas, and community leaders are being urged to help maintain peace and support the government’s efforts to ensure law and order.
The government has also tasked the state’s Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (Rtd), with coordinating closely with all security agencies to ensure the strict enforcement of these measures.
Authorities have made it clear that any attempt to disrupt public peace will be met with immediate legal action.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and report any suspicious activity.
The Kogi State Government assures the public that these security measures are temporary and necessary for the safety of all.
