Kogi State Government has placed an indefinite ban on all forms of rallies and public gatherings in all parts of the state.
Announcing the decision in a statement on Monday, the state Commissioner for information, Kingsley Fanwo said the decision was necessitated by disturbing intelligence reports.
According to him, reports are indicating that certain individuals are plotting to infiltrate the state under the guise of organizing rallies, using fake security personnel to foment trouble and compromise the security of law-abiding citizens of our dear state.
He listed Kogi, Ankpa and Kogi central senatorial districts as some places where security breach had been recorded in the state in recent times, saying that government can no longer watch and allow the situation to degenerate.
“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 organization is permitted to hold any form of rally within the state until further notice,” he said.
The statement said Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo had in a swift response to the negative intelligence reports met with the leadership of the State Traditional Council led by the Attah of Igala to agree on the modalities for ensuring peace and security in the State.
The government has also directed that any individual or group entering the state with a convoy of security personnel must obtain prior clearance from state commands of security agencies.
Fanwo said : “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 pretense 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.”
The statement said Governor Ododo has also directed all the Local Government Chairmen to take charge of security in their domains.
He also urged 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.
“To guarantee the full implementation of these measures, His Excellency, the Chief Servant of Kogi State, has directed the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (Rtd), to work closely with all security agencies in the state to ensure strict enforcement. Security agencies have been placed on high alert and will take all necessary steps to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
“The Kogi State Government urges all residents to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and cooperative with security agencies.
“The safety and well-being of the people remain the government’s top priority, and any attempt to undermine the peace and stability of the state will be met with the full force of the law.
“Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activities or movements to the appropriate security authorities.
“The government assures all residents that these measures are temporary and necessary for the greater good of all,” Fanwo explained. (vitalnewsngr.com)
