Ododo
By Tosin Ogunrinde
Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo has announced a statewide curfew, directing all social, religious, and community activities to end by 4 p.m. daily, effective immediately. This move is aimed at curbing rising insecurity in the state, particularly after recent incidents of bandit attacks and kidnappings.
The governor made this announcement after an expanded security council meeting in Lokoja, emphasizing that any social event or religious center violating the order will face legal consequences, including demolition of the venue and arrest of culprits. Ododo stressed that the state will not negotiate with criminals and is committed to tackling insecurity head-on.
The curfew is part of a broader security blueprint that includes enhanced intelligence and surveillance, full profiling of mining operations, and strengthened joint security operations. Traditional rulers and security agencies have pledged their full cooperation with the government to ensure peace and stability in the state.
The move comes after a vigilante group in Aiyetoro Kiri foiled a bandit attack on Kiri High School, preventing the abduction of students. Two people were killed during the rescue operation, highlighting the gravity of the security situation in Kogi State.
Governor Ododo has urged residents to stay vigilant and report suspicious activities to security hotlines, while also warning against spreading unverified information that could fuel panic. The state government is working closely with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and security agencies to tackle insecurity.
The Kogi State Government has also called on citizens to support the government’s efforts in maintaining peace and stability, emphasizing that security is a collective responsibility. The government has promised to roll out additional security measures in the coming days to safeguard residents.
