Kogi State Government has placed an indefinite ban on rallies, public gatherings, and fishing activities across parts of the state in response to rising security threats.
The decision follows intelligence reports indicating potential unrest in various regions, including Kogi Central, where planned rallies have raised concerns.
The state’s Commissioner for Information,Kingsley Fanwo, issued a statement on Monday explaining that the move aims to safeguard public peace and prevent any disruptions that could destabilize the state.
According to him, security intelligence has revealed that certain individuals intend to stage “violent rallies in the guise of political and religious agitations” within Kogi Central.
This announcement coincides with the scheduled homecoming reception for the embattled Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was suspended for six months following a confrontation with Senate President Godswill Akpabio over seating arrangements and allegations of sexual harassment.
Amidst her suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan took her grievances to international platforms such as the United Nations Inter-Parliamentary Union, BBC, and VOA.
However, her constituents have since initiated a recall process, submitting a petition to the Independent National Electoral Commission in Abuja. Her supporters had planned a grand welcome rally on Tuesday to reaffirm their backing.
The state government, however, insists that intelligence reports point to significant security risks associated with planned rallies and gatherings.
Following a peaceful Sallah celebration, concerns have grown over communal tensions in different parts of the state.
Fanwo stated that disturbances in Kogi West, particularly a violent incident during a fishing activity that resulted in two deaths, and a communal clash in Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi East, are adding to the tension.
“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 compromise 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,” the statement read.
The government has also imposed restrictions on security convoys, requiring that any individual or group entering the state with a convoy of security personnel must first secure clearance from the relevant state commands.
Governor Usman Ododo, as part of the security strategy, has met with the Kogi State Traditional Council, led by the Attah of Igala, to establish measures for maintaining peace.
Additionally, all local government chairmen have been instructed to take responsibility for security within their jurisdictions.
To ensure strict enforcement of the new directives, Security Adviser Commander Jerry Omodara (retd.) has been tasked with coordinating security agencies across the state.
Furthermore, the government has ordered the suspension of all fishing activities in Kogi Local Government Area until stability is restored.
“All fishing activities in Kogi Local Government Area is hereby suspended until peace is completely restored.
“Security operatives have been deployed to the affected areas to restore peace and implement our directive.
“The state government has deployed security to also calm the situation in the communal clash between Ika-Odele and Ika Ochala in Ankpa Local Government Area, specifically in Enjema District, to avert further loss of lives and property.
“The ongoing peace meeting between the two communities as facilitated by the state government must be sustained,” the statement read.
The Kogi State Government has urged residents to remain law-abiding and cooperate with security agencies, emphasizing that their safety remains a priority.
