By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

Residents of Ayegunle Bunu in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State were thrown into panic in the early hours of Monday following a reported attack by armed assailants that left one person dead and more than 30 others feared abducted. According to local sources, the incident occurred at about 2:25 a.m. in the community. One person was reportedly killed during the attack, while another sustained injuries.

Sources said two residents of Ayegunle Bunu—a man and a woman—were among those allegedly abducted. The remaining victims were said to be passengers travelling in a commercial bus that was reportedly intercepted by the attackers while passing through the area.The exact number of people abducted could not be independently verified as of the time of filing this report.

Security agencies have yet to issue an official statement on the incident. Efforts are reportedly ongoing to verify details of the attack and determine the number of victims involved.The latest incident has raised concerns among residents about security in the area, with community members calling for increased protection and swift action by relevant authorities.

By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

At least two people were reportedly killed and several others injured following a clash involving military personnel and festival participants during the Echane Masquerade Festival in Ogaminana, the headquarters of Adavi Local Government Area of Kogi State.The incident occurred on Sunday and prompted the Kogi State Government to suspend the festival across Ebiraland over security concerns.

According to eyewitness accounts, tensions began after two soldiers, reportedly dressed in civilian clothing, were allegedly assaulted during the festival procession. Witnesses said the soldiers later returned to the area with colleagues, leading to a confrontation that escalated into violence.

Residents claimed gunshots were heard during the incident, causing panic in the community. Some witnesses alleged that several people sustained injuries in the ensuing chaos.One of the deceased was identified by residents as Omeiza, a Point of Sale (POS) operator, who was reportedly inside his kiosk when he was struck during the disturbance.

Another victim was said to have died after sustaining injuries and being taken to hospital. A separate account suggested that some off-duty soldiers attending the festival became involved after learning of the alleged assault on their colleagues.Community leaders reportedly attempted to mediate and calm tensions, but the efforts were unsuccessful.

Residents have called on the Kogi State Government and security agencies to investigate the incident and prevent further violence. As of press time, the Kogi State Police Command had not issued an official statement. Attempts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Afusat Oyiza Saliu, for comment were unsuccessful.

By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

The Kogi State Government has suspended the Echane Festival across Ebiraland with immediate effect, citing security concerns and the need to maintain public order.

The suspension was announced in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, who said the decision followed credible intelligence reports indicating that activities associated with the festival could pose security risks in parts of Kogi Central Senatorial District.

According to the statement, while the government respects the cultural significance of traditional festivals and their role in preserving heritage, the safety of lives and property remains its top priority. Fanwo said Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo approved the suspension as a precautionary measure to prevent any potential breakdown of law and order.

“The Governor has directed that the Echane Festival be suspended with immediate effect in view of security reports and the need to preserve peace and public safety,” the statement said. The government directed security agencies across the state to enforce the directive and warned that anyone found organising, participating in, or promoting activities related to the suspended festival would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

The statement also called on traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups and residents to cooperate with security agencies and support efforts to maintain peace in the affected areas. The government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting citizens and ensuring that security considerations remain central to decisions involving public gatherings.