The Kogi State Government has imposed a total ban on rallies, public gatherings, and fishing activities across the state, citing security threats.
In a statement released on Monday, the Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, explained that the decision followed intelligence reports indicating plans to stage violent rallies under the guise of political and religious agitations, particularly in Kogi Central. The move is aimed at averting any form of security breach that could destabilize the state.
The development coincides with the homecoming ceremony of suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District. The embattled senator, who was suspended from the Senate for six months after a confrontation with Senate President Godswill Akpabio, has faced calls for a recall from her constituents. The recall petition has already been submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Abuja.
Apart from the potential political unrest, the government also pointed to recent violent incidents, including the loss of two lives during fishing activities in Kasemiya, Katubo, and Umozu Ette communities in Kogi West. Consequently, all fishing activities in Kogi Local Government Area have been suspended until peace is fully restored.
Similarly, communal clashes between Ika-Odele and Ika Ochala in Ankpa Local Government Area (Kogi East), particularly in Enjema District, have raised tensions. Security operatives have been deployed to affected areas to restore peace and maintain order.
Governor Usman Ododo has directed that any individual entering the state with a convoy of security personnel must obtain prior clearance from the relevant state commands. Furthermore, the governor met with the leadership of the Kogi State Traditional Council, led by the Attah of Igala, to establish protocols for ensuring peace and security.
Security Adviser Commander Jerry Omodara (retd.) has been tasked with coordinating efforts with all security agencies to enforce the ban and maintain public safety.
The government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property while urging residents to remain law-abiding and cooperative with security agencies. It also emphasized that while citizens have constitutional rights to peaceful assembly, public safety must take precedence in light of prevailing security challenges.
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