Governor Ahmed Ododo of Kogi State has ordered all social, religious, and community gatherings to end by 4 pm daily until further notice, following rising concerns about bandits moving through parts of the state.
The directive was issued at an emergency security meeting held on Thursday at the Government House in Lokoja. The meeting was attended by security agencies, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders.
The governor warned that any place that disobeys the new rule risks being demolished.
Ododo said security operatives had, in the past three days, traced key bandits and their commanders to several locations within the state. He explained that the new restriction would help security agencies take the fight directly to criminal groups.
He said, “Security operatives have tracked major bandits and commanders to locations within the state in the last three days. The current measure was designed to ensure that the state will take the fight to the criminal elements rather than wait for attacks.”
The governor stressed that insecurity remains a global issue and urged residents to stay alert. He also assured the people that his administration is working closely with traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, and security operatives to keep the state safe.
Ododo praised President Bola Tinubu for what he called proactive leadership, especially in the recent rescue of kidnapped students and church members. He said the federal government has shown commitment to tackling insecurity across the country.
During the meeting, Deputy Commissioner of Police Ayo Edun appealed for calm. He said many reports causing fear were only social media rumours. He encouraged residents to confirm information before sharing and to report suspicious activity through official hotlines.
The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, His Royal Highness Tijani Anaje, who spoke on behalf of other traditional rulers, promised full cooperation with the government. He also warned that some videos and messages circulating online were false and contributing to unnecessary tension. He called for stronger cooperation among community leaders to keep the peace.
Recent cases of insecurity in the North Central region have increased public worry. Last week, 38 worshippers were abducted during an attack on Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara State, where two people died. The abducted victims were freed two days later.
In another case, more than 300 students were kidnapped from St Mary Catholic School in Niger State.
The Kogi State Government said more security steps will be introduced soon as efforts continue to protect residents and restore calm across the state.
