The Kogi State Government has ordered the temporary closure of selected markets and motor parks across several communities in Kogi West Senatorial District to support ongoing, large-scale security operations against bandits and other criminal elements.
The measure, which takes immediate effect, is part of coordinated efforts involving the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and security agencies operating in the State. According to the Government, the decision aims to disrupt the logistics, movement and supply networks sustaining criminal groups during the clearance operations.
A statement issued on Sunday by Kingsley Femi Fanwo, Commissioner for Information and Communications, indicated that the shutdown affected parts of Lokoja, Kabba-Bunu, Yagba West, Yagba East, Kogi and Mopamuro Local Government Areas. Markets and motor parks in dozens of communities within these councils will remain closed for the duration of the security exercise.
Fanwo said the operations had already yielded significant results, with security forces rescuing 16 kidnapped victims from a camp linked to a notorious bandit leader, Kachalla Battijo, in the Tunga Forest. He added that the camp had been overrun, while sustained offensives continue across eight local government areas to fully dismantle criminal networks.
The State Government reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on banditry, stressing that it would not negotiate with criminals or pay ransom under any circumstances.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, however, commended President Bola Tinubu, National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Oluwatosin Ajayi, and other security chiefs for their support and the progress recorded so far.
While acknowledging the temporary hardship the closures migjht cause traders and residents, the Government said the sacrifice was necessary to restore lasting peace and reduce collateral damage, as movements in the affected areas would be closely monitored.
Governor Ododo has therefore directed the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd.), to ensure strict enforcement of the directive in collaboration with security agencies. Local government chairmen are also tasked with monitoring compliance and submitting regular situation reports, while the Ministry of Information and Communications had been instructed to intensify grassroots sensitisation.
The Government appealed to residents for patience, understanding and cooperation, assuring that the closures will be lifted immediately after the successful conclusion of the security operations.
