Kogi State Bans Rallies Amidst Homecoming by Sen. Natasha
By Samuel Jakada
Kogi State government issues security alert, banning all rallies and regulating security convoys, hours after Sen. Natasha’s homecoming announcement, citing intelligence of planned unrest.
LOKOJA, Nigeria – The Kogi State Government has issued a stringent security alert, imposing an immediate ban on all rallies and tightening regulations on security convoys entering the state. This announcement comes just hours after Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan announced her planned homecoming, raising concerns about potential political tensions.
In a press statement released on March 31, 2025, Hon. Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, cited “credible intelligence reports” indicating plans to destabilize the state under the guise of political and religious gatherings.
“The Kogi State Government remains unwavering in its commitment to protecting the lives and property of all residents and ensuring that the state remains a haven of peace and security,” stated Fanwo. “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.”
The statement highlighted specific security concerns, including communal clashes in Kogi West and Kogi East, as well as intelligence suggesting planned violent rallies in Kogi Central. The government has suspended all fishing activities in Kogi Local Government Area and deployed security personnel to affected areas.
Key measures announced include:
- Total ban on all rallies and public gatherings that could disrupt public peace.
- Mandatory prior clearance for any individual or group entering the state with a security convoy.
- Directives to Local Government Chairmen to take charge of security in their domains.
- Urgent meeting with the Kogi State Traditional Council to ensure peace and security.
The government emphasized that these measures are temporary and necessary for public safety, urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. They also assured citizens of their commitment to delivering democracy dividends.
“The Chief Servant of the State, His Excellency Alh Ahmed Usman Ododo has also directed all the Local Government Chairmen to take charge of security in their domains. He also urged community leaders and opinion moulders to talk to their people on the need to sustain the relative peace in the state and back the State Government to continue to deliver democracy dividends to the great people of Kogi State.” The Press release states.
The timing of this announcement, following Sen. Natasha’s homecoming plans, has fueled speculation about potential political motivations. The government, however, maintains that its primary concern is the safety and security of all Kogi residents.
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