The Kogi State Government has issued a ban on all rallies and public gatherings, effective immediately. The ban comes in light of rising security threats in various parts of the state, particularly in Kogi Central, where there are concerns about potential violent rallies disguised as political or religious agitations. This action has been taken ahead of a planned “homecoming” rally by Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduagha, who represents Kogi Central in the National Assembly.
The move by the Kogi State Government is part of a broader effort to prevent disruptions and safeguard the well-being of the people, as authorities have been made aware of several potential security risks in different regions of the state. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has been proactive in addressing these threats and taking necessary actions to ensure the safety of residents.
In a press statement issued on March 31, 2025, the Kogi State Government explained that intelligence reports pointed to the possibility of rallies being used as cover for violent activities. These planned rallies, officials claim, are intended to create chaos and jeopardize public safety.
Security reports further reveal that certain groups, allegedly including some with fake security personnel, were planning to infiltrate the state under the guise of organizing political or religious rallies. Such actions would disrupt the peace, with potentially severe consequences for the state’s stability. Consequently, the government decided to implement the rally ban and impose stricter regulations on security convoys.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo emphasized that while the government recognizes the right of citizens to gather and express themselves, security considerations must take priority in situations like this. He also explained that any group or individual wishing to enter the state with a security convoy must now obtain clearance from the relevant security agencies in Kogi State. This new measure is aimed at preventing unauthorized personnel from entering the state and ensuring that only accredited security agents are operating within its borders.
“We are committed to protecting the lives and properties of all residents, and these measures are necessary to avoid any unnecessary disruption and violence,” Governor Ododo said in the statement. The Governor’s commitment to security was further reflected in his efforts to meet with traditional rulers, including the Attah of Igala, to discuss the situation and ensure all communities are on board with maintaining peace.
The Kogi State Government highlighted that several security incidents have already occurred, threatening to disrupt the peace. In Kogi West, the government confirmed that fishing activities in areas like Kasemiya, Katubo, and Umozu Ette had led to violent clashes, resulting in the loss of two lives. As a result, all fishing activities in the Kogi Local Government Area have been temporarily suspended until the situation is fully under control.
Additionally, a communal clash in the Enjema District of Ankpa Local Government Area between the Ika-Odele and Ika-Ochala communities has further contributed to growing tensions. The state has deployed security personnel to the area and has facilitated peace meetings between the communities to prevent further violence.
The security measures come just as Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduagha is planning a significant rally in her home region of Kogi Central. Akpoti Uduagha, a prominent political figure and former gubernatorial candidate, has been active in the political scene and is known for her advocacy for the people of Kogi Central. The rally, which many view as a homecoming event, is likely to draw large crowds and has been closely monitored by the state government due to potential security concerns.
Although the government has not mentioned the rally directly, it is clear that the decision to ban rallies and regulate security convoys is linked to the plans for the event. The government’s aim is to ensure that no political event leads to unrest or violence, especially in light of intelligence reports suggesting that some individuals may attempt to use the rally as an opportunity to disrupt peace.
To ensure that these new measures are effectively implemented, the Kogi State Government has instructed all local government chairmen to take charge of security within their respective jurisdictions. The government also called on community leaders and influential individuals to engage with the people and encourage them to support the government’s efforts to maintain peace.
Retired Commander Jerry Omodara, the State Security Adviser, has been tasked with working closely with security agencies to ensure that the new directives are carried out effectively. Security forces in the state have been placed on high alert, and any group or individual attempting to flout the government’s ban on rallies will face serious legal consequences.
The Kogi State Government has also warned residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies. In the press release, it assured citizens that the measures are temporary but necessary for the greater good of the people. The government encouraged citizens to report any suspicious activities or movements to the appropriate authorities and emphasized that anyone found undermining the peace of the state would face the full force of the law.
Despite these heightened security measures, the government maintains that the safety and well-being of the people remain its top priority. Governor Ododo has reiterated his commitment to making Kogi a safe and secure state, stressing that the government is doing everything possible to restore peace in areas currently experiencing unrest.
The Kogi State Government’s actions come at a time of heightened political activity, with the state gearing up for a major political event in the form of Natasha Akpoti Uduagha’s rally. While the government’s response has been firm, it remains clear that the priority is to avoid any violent incidents that could destabilize the state.
The public is encouraged to remain law-abiding and patient, as the government works to address the security challenges facing the state. The safety of citizens is paramount, and the state government is determined to ensure that Kogi remains a peaceful and secure environment for all its residents.
