In a decisive step , the Kogi State government has announced a ban on all forms of rallies and has equally put in measures to regulate convoys.
In a statement signed by Kingsley Fanwo, Kogi State Commissioner for Information made available to the RADARR on Monday, the government said the measures became necessary “ In light of credible intelligence reports, the government has deemed it necessary to take proactive measures to prevent any form of security breach that could destabilize the State.”
“Also, in Ankpa Local Government Area, specifically in Enjema District, a communal clash between Ika-Odele and Ika Ochala is threatening the peace of Kogi East. The State Government has deployed security to also calm the situation to avert further loss of lives and property. The ongoing peace meeting between the two communities as facilitated by the State Government must be sustained.
“In Kogi Central, intelligence at our disposal point to the fact that some elements are planning to stage some violent rallies in the guise of political and religious agitations. This is to create a platform for wanton destruction and breakdown of law and order,” the media statement read in parts.
It was gathered that government took the decision ostensibly to prevent a solidarity rally by supporters of suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti -Uduaghan .
Senator Natasha was billed to visit her Kogi Central constituency but the ban on rally by the state government may put paid to solidarity rally by her supporters .
The government also gave indications on the need to properly regulate security convoys as it said intelligence available showed certain individuals with sinister motives entering the state under the cover of convoys.