The Kogi State Government has issued a stern warning to churches across the state to strictly comply with its security directive prohibiting late-hour religious activities, following intelligence reports of a planned bandit attack in Ijumu Local Government Area.
Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, disclosed that intercepted communications among suspected criminal elements revealed a plot to target a church during a night service, with the intention of kidnapping worshippers for ransom.
According to him, security agencies have already activated preventive measures to thwart the planned attack. However, he stressed that the government’s directive banning religious gatherings beyond 4 p.m. — particularly in remote or bushy locations without prior security clearance — remains in full effect.
“No church is permitted to operate beyond the approved hours in vulnerable areas,” Fanwo stated, describing the restriction as a proactive step aimed at safeguarding lives and preventing avoidable tragedies.
The government warned that any church found flouting the directive would face sanctions, while security operatives have been instructed to enforce compliance, including halting unauthorised night services.
Meanwhile, in a significant security breakthrough, troops of the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade have overrun a terrorist enclave believed to be linked to suspected kingpins Kachalla Ibrahim and Shu’aibu.
During the coordinated counter-terrorism operation, soldiers recovered a substantial cache of arms and ammunition, in what authorities described as a major boost to ongoing efforts to stabilise the state.
In a statement issued Wednesday via the Nigerian Army’s official X handle, the intelligence-led operation was spearheaded by troops under the command of Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi.
Despite severe mobility challenges posed by fallen trees and marshy terrain, the troops reportedly dismounted and advanced on foot to achieve tactical surprise and operational dominance over the insurgents.
The dual developments — heightened vigilance around religious gatherings and the successful military operation — underscore the state government’s intensified efforts to curb insecurity and dismantle criminal networks operating within Kogi.
