By Muslimat Itopa
Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has directed all social, religious, and community activities to end at Four o’clock in the afternoon daily.
Governor Ododo who gave the directive during an emergency stakeholders’ meeting with security agencies, and traditional rulers at the Government House Lokoja, warned that any centre that violates the directive will be demolished.
The meeting, chaired by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, comes amid rising public anxiety over reports of bandits presence in parts of the state.
Governor Ododo emphasized that the measure was taken in the interest of all residents, regardless of religious or political affiliation.
The Governor confirmed that security operatives have tracked major bandits and commanders to locations within the state in the last three days, assuring that the State will take the fight to criminal elements rather than wait for attacks.
He noted that security threats are a global challenge and urged residents to stay vigilant.
Governor Ododo reassured the people that the present administration is working in synergy with the traditional rulers, religious leaders, security agencies, and youth to tackle insecurity in the state.
He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his proactive leadership in the recent rescue of kidnapped students and church members, saying the Federal Government has shown commitment to tackling insecurity nationwide.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Ayo Edun, called for calm, insisting that many of the circulating reports fueling panic were social media rumours.
He urged residents to verify information before sharing it and report suspicious activity through circulated security hotlines.
The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, His Royal Highness Tijani Anaje, speaking on behalf of traditional rulers, pledged full cooperation with government and security agencies.
He expressed concern over wrong and misleading information spreading online, noting that some videos and messages circulating on social media were false.
He called for strategic collaboration among all community leaders to ensure peace across the state.
The Kogi State Government is expected to roll out additional security measures in the coming days as efforts continue to maintain calm and safeguard residents.
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