The Chairman of Mopamuro local government council in Kogi state, Hon. Ademola Bello, has issued an executive order regulating public gatherings in the area.
Bello issued the executive order after due deliberations with heads of security agencies in the local government area on Monday.
According to a statement signed by Olowu Juwon, the senior special assistant to the Chairman on media and publicity, the executive order empowers security agencies to regulate public gatherings and prosecute anyone who violates the order.
The statement explained that the order became necessary after the tragic death of a vibrant youth during a violence that erupted in a public event to celebrate the culture of the people.
“The Executive Chairman acknowledged the rights to peaceful assembly as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. However, he said such gatherings must be such that people’s safety is guaranteed,” the statement read.
He explained further that the executive order, to restore sanity to any form of social-cultural and political gatherings, mandated that no public gathering shall be held in Mopamuro without obtaining permission from the Police or other security agencies before holding a public gathering.
“A written notice shall be sent to the Nigeria Police Force, copying other security agencies before holding a public gathering.
“Conditions set by security agencies shall be complied with, such as maintaining peace and order, avoiding obstruction of public spaces, and ensuring public safety. Requirements may vary depending on the location and circumstances.
“The Traditional Ruler of each community shall confirm the security permission before allowing any public gathering in their community to ensure peace and security,” the statement explained.
The Chairman directed the security agencies in the local government area to effectively enforce the executive order with immediate effect.
He further emphasized the prosecution of anyone who violates the new order.
