The Kogi State Government has imposed a ban on rallies and public gatherings across the state, citing credible security concerns.
In a statement on Monday, Kingsley Fanwo, Commissioner for Information, said the decision was taken to prevent any potential security breaches that could destabilize the state. The announcement comes just 24 hours before the planned homecoming event of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the senator representing Kogi Central.
Fanwo emphasized that while Kogi recently experienced a peaceful Sallah celebration, intelligence reports have identified security threats that could disrupt the existing stability. He alleged that certain individuals were planning to stage violent demonstrations under the guise of political and religious agitations, particularly in Kogi Central.
The state government has also ordered that any individual entering Kogi with a convoy of security personnel must first obtain clearance from the relevant security commands.
“In Kogi Central, intelligence at our disposal points to the fact that some elements are planning to stage violent rallies in the guise of political and religious agitations,” the statement reads. “This is to create a platform for wanton destruction and breakdown of law and order. These disturbances are raising tension in the state and threatening public peace and security.”
The government stressed that while it acknowledges the constitutional rights of citizens to assemble and express themselves, public safety remains a priority. “No individual, group, or organization is permitted to hold any form of rally within the state until further notice,” the statement added.
This development follows a series of controversies surrounding Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. She was recently suspended from the Senate for six months and has accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment. Additionally, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has received a petition from her constituents seeking her recall from the National Assembly. The petition reportedly includes 250,000 signatures from 488,000 registered voters in Kogi Central.
