Insecurity: Kogi govt bans fishing activities, rallies, use of security convoy by individuals
The Kogi State government has read the riot act to residents of the state following the killing of two persons and security threats in some parts of the state, banning rallies and the use of security convoys in the state, among other measures.
Though details of the killings were sketchy at press time, it was gathered that two people were killed over fishing activities in Kogi, the local government of the state.
The incident is said to have triggered security threats in the local government and other neighbouring fishing communities, among others, prompting the government to take decisive and preemptive measures to forestall total breakdown of law and order.
The government, in a statement yesterday by Commissioner for Information and Communication Mr Kingsley Fanwo, after a meeting of the state government with traditional rulers and security operatives, said among other things: “The Kogi State Government remains unwavering in its commitment to protecting the lives and property of all residents and ensuring that the state remains a haven of peace and security.
“In light of credible intelligence reports, the government has deemed it necessary to take proactive measures to prevent any form of security breach that could destabilise the state.
“It is heartwarming to note that the state witnessed a peaceful Sallah. However, certain security threats are jeopardising the tranquilly of the state. In Kasemiya, Katubo, and Umozu Ette, all in Kogi Local Government Area of Kogi West, fishing activities have resulted in a serious crisis, leading to the loss of two lives.
“All fishing activities in Kogi Local Government Area are hereby suspended until peace is completely restored. Security operatives have been deployed to the affected areas to restore peace and implement our directive.
“Also, in Ankpa Local Government Area, specifically in Enjema District, a communal clash between Ika-Odele and Ika-Ochala is threatening the peace of Kogi East. The state government has deployed security to also calm the situation and avert further losses of lives and property. The State Government must sustain the ongoing peace meetings between the two communities.
“In Kogi Central, intelligence at our disposal points to the fact that some elements are planning to stage some violent rallies in the guise of political and religious agitations. The intention is to create a platform for wanton destruction and breakdown of law and order.
“These flashes of disturbances are raising tension in the state and threatening to breach public peace and security. In view of this, and effective immediately, the Kogi State Government has placed a total ban on all forms of rallies or public gatherings that have the potential to disrupt public peace.
“This decision has been necessitated by intelligence reports indicating that certain individuals are plotting to infiltrate the state under the guise of organising rallies, using fake security personnel to foment trouble, and compromising the security of law-abiding citizens of our dear state.
“While the government recognises the constitutional rights of citizens to gather and express themselves, security considerations must take precedence in the interest of public safety. As such, no individual, group, or organisation is permitted to hold any form of rally within the state until further notice.”
“In a swift proactive move, Chief Servant of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Ododo, has today met with the leadership of the Kogi State Traditional Council led by the Attah of Igala, Matthew Opaluwa Alaji, to agree on the modalities for ensuring peace and security in the state. The Royal Fathers also commended the Chief Servant of the State for his proactive measures to protect lives and property.
“In furtherance of its commitment to maintaining law and order, the Kogi State Government has directed that any individual or group entering the state with a convoy of security personnel must obtain prior clearance from the state commands of the deploying services. This measure is to ensure proper profiling and verification of all security operatives accompanying such convoys.
“The State Government has received intelligence indicating attempts by some individuals to enter Kogi State under the pretence of being security personnel with the intention of causing unrest. This directive, therefore, is aimed at preventing any unauthorised movement of armed individuals and ensuring that only duly accredited security agents operate within the state.
“The Chief Servant of the State, His Excellency Alh. Ahmed Usman Ododo, has also directed all the local government chairmen to take charge of security in their domains. He also urged community leaders and opinion moulders to talk to their people on the need to sustain the relative peace in the state and back the state government to continue to deliver democracy dividends to the great people of Kogi State.
“To guarantee the full implementation of these measures, His Excellency, the Chief Servant of Kogi State, has directed the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (Rtd), to work closely with all security agencies in the state to ensure strict enforcement. Security agencies have been placed on high alert and will take all necessary steps to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
“The Kogi State Government urges all residents to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and cooperative with security agencies. The safety and well-being of the people remain the government’s top priority, and any attempt to undermine the peace and stability of the state will be met with the full force of the law.