By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Kogi state government on Monday in Lokoja banned all sort of gathering and fishing activities in Kogi Local Government Area of the state until peace is completely restored.
This is sequel to the killing of two people after eruption of crisis during a fishing festival in Kasemiya, Katubo and Umozu Ette all in Kogi Local Government Area in Kogi West,
In a press statement by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo
said the 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 destabilize the state.”
” It is heartwarming to note that the State witnessed a peaceful Sallah, however some security threats are threatening the peace of the State.”
“In Kasemiya, Katubo and Umozu Ette all in Kogi Local Government Area in Kogi West, fishing activities have resulted in serious crisis, leading to the loss of two lives.”
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.
” In Kogi Central, intelligence at our disposal point to the fact that some elements are planning to stage some violent rallies in the guise of political and religious agitations. This 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.”
The decision according to the statement has been necessitated by intelligence reports indicating that certain individuals are plotting to infiltrate the state under the guise of organizing rallies, using fake security personnel to foment trouble and compromise the security of law-abiding citizens of our dear state.
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 state commands of the deploying services. This measure is to ensure proper profiling and verification of all security operatives accompanying such convoys.
“While the government recognizes 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 organization is permitted to hold any form of rally within the state until further notice.”
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.
In a swift proactive move, the Chief Servant of Kogi State, His Excellency Alh Ahmed Usman Ododo has met with the leadership of the Kogi State Traditional Council led by the Attah of Igala to agree on the modalities for ensuring peace and security in the State.
