Kogi state government has banned all forms of rallies and Security convoys entering the state.
The government disclosed that the security report pointed to some elements wanting to cause breach of law and order under the guise of rallies, gathering, and the use of illegal Security convoys.
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In a press release signed by the commissioner for information and communication, Kingsley Fanwo and made available to Journalists on Monday in Lokoja noted that the action is to safeguard lives and property of the citizens of the state.
The statement said, some security threats were threatening the peace of the State in Kasemiya, Katubo and Umozu Ette in Kogi Local Government Area of Kogi West even as fishing activities have resulted in serious crisis, leading to the loss of two lives.
Similarly, the commissioner stated that in Ankpa Local Government Area, specifically in Enjema District, a communal clash between Ika-Odele and Ika Ochala is threatening the peace of Kogi East.
To this end , he further disclosed that the State Government has deployed security personnel to also calm the situation to avert further loss of lives and property, stressing that it has facilitated peace meeting between the two communities which should be sustained.
According to the statement, “intelligence reports point to the fact that some elements are planning to stage some violent rallies in the guise of political and religious agitations in kogi central to create breach of law and order.
” 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 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 organisation is permitted to hold any form of rally within the state until further notice.
“In a swift proactive move, the Chief Servant of Kogi State, His Excellency Alh Ahmed Usman Ododo has today met with the leadership of the Kogi State Traditional Council led by the Atta’Igala to agree on the modalities for ensuring peace and security in the State. The Royal Fathers also commended the Chief Servant of the State for his proactive measures to protect lives and property.
” 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 State Government has received intelligence indicating attempts by some individuals to enter Kogi State under the pretence of being security personnel, with the intention of causing unrest. This directive, therefore, is aimed at preventing any unauthorized movement of armed individuals and ensuring that only duly accredited security agents operate within the state” He warned
Fanwo stated that Governor Ododo has also directed all the Local Government Chairmen to take charge of security in their domains, while urging community leaders and opinion moulders to talk to their people on the need to sustain the relative peace in the state and back the State Government to continue to deliver democracy dividends to the great people of Kogi State.
According to him, the State Security Adviser Commander Jerry Omodara (Rtd), has been directed to work closely with all security agencies in the state to ensure strict enforcement even as Security agencies have been placed on high alert and will take all necessary steps to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
He, however, urges all residents to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and cooperate with security agencies as safety and well-being of the people remain the government’s top priority, and warned them against undermining the peace and stability of the state.
