Kogi Shuts Markets, Bans Okada and Night Movement After 7PM in Major Anti-Bandit Sweep

The Kogi State Government has announced a series of sweeping security measures, including a ban on commercial motorcycle operations in parts of Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area and restrictions on night travel across state-owned roads, as authorities intensify efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating within the state.

The measures, which take immediate effect, were announced in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo.

According to the government, the directives followed a review of ongoing military and security operations in Bunu District after a recent attack on Iluke community, which officials said was successfully repelled by security forces.

Authorities disclosed that intelligence and operational reports indicate that several attackers were neutralised during the confrontation, while others sustained injuries and remain trapped within forest locations where security clearance operations are continuing.

To consolidate the gains recorded by security agencies, the state government approved the immediate prohibition of commercial motorcycle operations along designated hinterland routes within the Bunu axis.

The affected corridors include routes connecting Idoyi Bunu, Illah Bunu, Iluke Bunu, Kiri, Odai Bunu, Igbo Bunu, Ilogun Bunu, Olle Bunu, Ayede Bunu, Oke-Ofin Bunu, Edumo Bunu, Aherin, Eshi and Ighun Bunu.

Government said intelligence reports revealed that motorcycles had become a major channel for transporting food, water, medication and other supplies to armed groups hiding in forested locations.

Authorities also alleged that some criminal elements utilise motorcycles to gather intelligence on communities before carrying out attacks.

As part of the measures, all markets located within the affected corridors have been ordered shut until further notice.

Mobile medicine vendors were similarly directed to suspend the transportation and sale of pharmaceutical products on motorcycles within the affected areas.

The government also imposed an immediate ban on the sale of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) and Automotive Gas Oil (diesel) in jerrycans throughout Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area.

In a separate directive aimed at strengthening statewide security, the government announced a ban on night travel on all state-owned roads.

Under the order, vehicular movement on such roads must cease by 7:00 p.m daily until further notice.

Officials warned that persons found travelling on state roads after the stipulated time risk arrest and prosecution.

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has directed security agencies to ensure strict enforcement of the new measures.

The government further warned that anyone found aiding, supplying, harbouring or collaborating with terrorists would be treated as an accomplice and prosecuted under relevant laws.

While acknowledging the inconvenience the restrictions may cause residents and businesses, the state government maintained that the measures are necessary to safeguard lives and restore lasting peace in affected communities.

Authorities assured residents that the security situation would be reviewed every two weeks to assess the effectiveness of the measures and determine whether adjustments are required based on progress made by security agencies.

The government appealed to citizens to remain vigilant and continue providing credible intelligence to security agencies as operations against criminal groups continue across the state.