The Kupa Development Association (KUDA) has called on the federal and state governments to urgently reinforce security in Kupa District following a deadly attack by armed bandits on several communities, which reportedly killed and injured residents and left many others living in fear.
In a statement issued Thursday, KUDA said the attack struck the communities of Guchidan, Mikugi, and Abugi, resulting in loss of life and widespread panic across the district. The association extended condolences to bereaved families and wished the injured a swift recovery.
The statement was signed by Abdulmalik Saidu on behalf of the Kupa Development Association, Lokoja Local Government Area, Kogi State.
KUDA commended the traditional institution under the Maiyaki of Kupa, Pharm. HRH Dauda Kabir Isah, for coordinating community peace efforts and working with stakeholders to maintain calm in the aftermath of the attack. However, the association said these local initiatives, while commendable, are not enough to meet the scale of the security threat facing the district.
According to the statement, a Divisional Police Office (DPO) for Kupa has already been approved but remains non-operational. More critically, KUDA said the entire district — comprising roughly 88 villages — is currently served by only one police officer, who is unarmed. The association described this staffing level as a “gross inadequacy” that has left thousands of residents exposed to repeated attacks.
KUDA appealed directly to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Governor of Kogi State, the National Security Adviser, the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, and other relevant authorities to act swiftly.
Its specific requests includes the immediate operationalisation of the already-approved Divisional Police Office in Kupa, deployment of adequate personnel, arms, patrol vehicles, and communication equipment to the Division, reinforcement of security personnel across the district, sustained patrols and intelligence-led operations and establishment of additional security outposts in vulnerable communities.
The Association also called for protection for farming communities and major access routes, humanitarian assistance for affected families, and long-term measures to prevent future attacks and rebuild residents’ confidence
The association reaffirmed its commitment to supporting lawful efforts to restore peace and security in the district. It urged residents to remain calm and vigilant, cooperate with security agencies by sharing useful information through proper channels, and avoid actions that could undermine ongoing security operations.
