The Chairman of Omala Local Government Area in Kogi State, Edibo Mark, has declared a dusk-to-dawn curfew as part of heightened security measures following rising insecurity in the area.
The curfew, which runs from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily, came into effect on December 2 and will remain in place until further notice. The council also announced round-the-clock security surveillance and intensified patrols across all communities to forestall further attacks.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Mark said the decision became imperative to safeguard lives and property in the wake of recent security breaches.
“To strengthen safety measures, security agencies have been directed to intensify checks at all entry points. Every border route will undergo strict stop-and-search operations, with the Joint Task Force fully deployed,” he stated.
The council also introduced temporary restrictions on religious and social activities.
“All public gatherings—including Moulud celebrations, Christian vigils, and similar programmes—are suspended until further notice,” Mark added.
He further announced a ban on fireworks during the festive season, while urging religious centres to keep their gatherings short.
“Sunday services and mosque prayers should be conducted promptly and closed on time,” he said.
Mark appealed to residents to comply with the directive and cooperate with security operatives, stressing that community support is vital to restoring lasting peace.
Omala LGA has recently recorded multiple kidnapping incidents and communal clashes, prompting the Kogi State Government to establish a forward operational base aimed at curbing the rising insecurity.
