Kogi State government has placed a ban on rallies and public gatherings , following “credible security reports.”
In a statement yesterday, the Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo said the move is to prevent any form of security breach that might destabilise the state.
The development comes amid the homecoming ceremony of the Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, scheduled for today (Tuesday).
Fanwo said Kogi had witnessed a peaceful sallah celebration, but some security threats are threatening the peace of the state
He added that the intelligence reports indicate that some persons are planning to “stage some violent rallies in the guise of political and religious agitations” in Kogi central.
The commissioner noted that the state government has directed that any individual entering Kogi with a convoy of security personnel must “obtain prior clearance from state commands of the deploying services”.
“In Kogi Central, intelligence at our disposal points to the fact that some elements are planning to stage some violent rallies in the guise of political and religious agitations.
“This is to create a platform for wanton destruction and breakdown of law and order. These flashes of disturbances are raising tension in the state and threatening to breach public peace and security.
“In view of this, and effective immediately, the Kogi State Government has placed a total ban on all forms of rallies or public gatherings that have the potential to disrupt public peace.
“This decision has been necessitated by intelligence reports indicating that certain individuals are plotting to infiltrate the state under the guise of organising rallies, using fake security personnel to foment trouble and compromise the security of law-abiding citizens of our dear state.
“While the government recognizes the constitutional rights of citizens to gather and express themselves, security considerations must take precedence in the interest of public safety.
“As such, no individual, group, or organisation is permitted to hold any form of rally within the state until further notice,” the statement read.
