Alhaji Ahmed Ododo, the governor of Kogi State, has ordered that all social, religious, and community events cease at 4 p.m. every day until further notice.
Our reporter heard that the governor made the command during an emergency stakeholders’ meeting with security agencies and traditional rulers at the Government House Lokoja on Thursday.
The governor further warned that any centre where the mandate is ignored would be dismantled.
The meeting, convened by the governor comes amid mounting public unease
regarding claims that there are bandits in several areas of the state.
He stressed that the measure was being taken in the interest of all people, regardless of religion or political allegiance.
“Security operatives have tracked major bandits and commanders to locations within the state in the last three days. The new policy was designed to ensure that the state will take the fight to the criminal elements rather than wait for attacks,” the governor noted.
He asked locals to remain watchful, pointing out that security concerns are a worldwide concern.
Governor Ododo informed the people that the present administration is working in collaboration with the traditional rulers, religious leaders, security agencies, and youth to fight insecurity in the state.
He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his aggressive leadership in the recent rescue of abducted churchgoers and students, claiming that the federal government has demonstrated a commitment to addressing insecurity across the country.
Ayo Edun, the Deputy Commissioner of Police, urged calm in the meanwhile, claiming that many of the claims that were spreading and causing fear were just rumors on social media.
He encouraged the residents to verify information before spreading it and report suspicious activity using established security hotlines.
The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, His Royal Highness Tijani Anaje, addressing on behalf of other traditional rulers, guaranteed full collaboration with government and security forces.
He voiced concern about inaccurate and deceptive material flowing online, pointing out that many statements and videos circulating on social media were untrue.
He urged for deliberate engagement among all community leaders to ensure peace across the state.
It was claimed that a number of security breaches have been observed in sections of the North Central states in recent times.
Last week, 38 congregants were seized in a bandits assault of Christ Apostolic Church, Eruku, Kwara State. Two people died in the tragedy. But two days later, the kidnapped worshippers were freed.
Also, another episode of kidnapping was observed in Niger State when around 300 kids were taken in a Catholic Church school — St Mary Catholic School.
The Kogi State Government said that it would roll out extra security measures in the coming days as efforts continue to maintain peace and secure residents.
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