Kogi state government has imposed a total ban on all rallies and public gatherings that could threaten public peace and security.
According to a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, the decision was necessitated by intelligence reports indicating that certain individuals were planning to infiltrate the state under the guise of organising rallies, using fake security personnel to foment trouble.
Governor Usman Ododo has also mandated 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, the statement explained, is aimed at preventing unauthorized armed individuals from entering Kogi state.
“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.
“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,” the statement read.
On the security concerns, Governor Ododo met with the leadership of the Kogi State Traditional Council led by the Attah of Igala, HRH Alaji Matthew Opaluwa, on Monday to agree on the modalities for ensuring peace and security in the state.
The royal fathers commended the Governor for his proactive measures to protect lives and property.
To further strengthen security, the governor has directed all Local Government Chairmen to take charge of security in their domains and engage community leaders in promoting peace.
Additionally, the State Security Adviser, Jerry Omodara, has been tasked with coordinating efforts with security agencies to ensure strict enforcement of the new directives.
The government cited recent security incidents as a cause for concern.
“In Kogi Local Government Area, clashes over fishing activities in Kasemiya, Katubo, and Umozu Ette have led to the loss of two lives. As a result, the government has suspended all fishing activities in the area until peace is fully restored.
“Similarly, a communal clash between Ika-Odele and Ika Ochala in Enjema District, Ankpa Local Government Area, has raised tensions in Kogi East. Security operatives have been deployed to calm the situation and prevent further loss of lives and property,” the statement added.
