Kogi LG Bans Public Gatherings, Enforces Curfew Over Insecurity

The Chairman of Omala Local Government Area of Kogi State, Edibo Mark, has announced a dusk-to-dawn curfew following heightened security threats and recurrent violent incidents in the LG.

The curfew, which runs from 7 pm to 6 am daily, took effect on December 2 and will remain in place until further notice. Alongside the restriction of movement, the council has rolled out 24-hour security surveillance and intensified patrols across all communities.

In a statement on Thursday, Mark said the decision was prompted by recent security breaches that endangered residents and disrupted economic activities.

According to him, the measure became necessary to protect lives and property while preventing further escalation.

“To strengthen safety measures, security agencies are directed to intensify checks at entry points. All border routes must undergo strict stop-and-search operations with the Joint Task Force fully deployed,” he said.

The council also placed limits on religious and social activities. Mark also announced the suspension of all public gatherings, including Moulud celebrations, Christian vigils, and similar programmes. Festival fireworks have also been banned.

He further directed that worship centres keep their activities short, noting, “Sunday services and mosque prayers should be conducted quickly and closed on time.”

Mark appealed to residents to comply fully with the directive and cooperate with security operatives, stressing that public support remains central to restoring peace and ensuring the success of ongoing operations.

Omala LGA has recorded a series of kidnapping incidents, bandit attacks, and communal clashes in recent months.

In response to the rising insecurity, the Kogi State Government recently established a forward operational base in the area as part of broader efforts to stabilise affected communities.

The chairman assured that the current measures are temporary and will be reviewed as security improves.