Kogi State Orders Temporary Closure Of Markets, Parks To Curb Banditry

The Kogi State Government has announced the temporary closure of selected markets and motor parks across parts of Kogi West Senatorial District to support ongoing security operations targeting terrorists, bandits, and other criminal elements. The directive is part of coordinated efforts with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and state security agencies.

In a statement signed on Saturday by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo, the government said the closures are intended to cut off logistics and deny criminal networks access to food supplies and other support. Affected locations span communities in Lokoja, Kabba-Bunu, Yagba West, Yagba East, Kogi, and Mopamuro Local Government Areas.

In Lokoja LGA, Oshokoshoko Market and Motor Park, Jakura, Ogbagbon, Agbaja, Atsawa, Obajana, Apata, Abugi, Amomi, Ebee, and Budon are affected. In Kabba-Bunu, the shutdown covers Ike Bunu, Aba Marian (Isado), Ofere, Abaa Dola (Ihale Bunu), Aiyede, Oke Offin, Aiyegunle Bunu, Okebukun, Odo Ape Bunu, Agbadu Bunu, and Agbede Apa Bunu.

In Yagba West LGA, markets and motor parks in Okoloke, Isanlu Esa, Okunran, Ogbe, Ejiba, Odo Eri, Igbaruku, Iyamerin, Ogga, Omi, Odo Ara, and Oke Ere are included, while in Yagba East, closures affect Irunda Ile, Iyeh Ilotin, Gada, Odogbe, and Ilafin. In Kogi LGA, the Rice Market at Adingere, Koton Karfe, Okpareke, Girinya, the Okro Market at Opanda, and the Perishable Market at Edeha are impacted. Mopamuro LGA markets in Otafun Amuro, Oroke Amuro, Takete Ide Amuro, Okeagi, Illai, Ilemo, and Ijagbe are also closed.

The government assured that the closures are temporary and will be lifted once the security operations are concluded. It also reported progress in the ongoing operations, including the rescue of sixteen kidnapped victims from the camp of notorious bandit leader Kachalla Battijo in the Tunga Forest. Security forces have overrun the camp and continue efforts to eliminate criminal elements in the region.

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo reiterated the state’s firm stance against negotiating with bandits or paying ransom. He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi, and all security heads for their support and the successes achieved so far.

The government acknowledged the hardship the closures may cause traders and residents but stressed that the measures are necessary to restore peace and ensure public safety. State Security Adviser Commander Jerry Omodara (Rtd.) and Local Government Chairmen have been directed to monitor compliance, while the Ministry of Information and Communications will intensify grassroots sensitisation to ensure adherence.

The Kogi State Government appealed for the understanding, cooperation, and support of all residents during the enforcement of these critical security measures.