The Chairman of Omala Local Government Area in Kogi State, Edibo Mark, has declared a dusk-to-dawn curfew following heightened security threats across the council area.
The curfew, which runs from 7pm to 6am daily, took effect on December 2 and will remain in place until the security situation improves. The council also announced round-the-clock surveillance and intensified patrols in all communities to forestall further attacks.
In a statement on Thursday, Mark said the decision was taken to safeguard lives and property after what he described as “recent security breaches” in the area.
“To strengthen safety measures, security agencies are directed to intensify checks at entry points,” he said. “All border routes must undergo strict stop-and-search operations with the Joint Task Force fully deployed.”
He also announced restrictions on religious and social activities, noting that the measures were necessary to curb potential threats. “All public gatherings, including Moulud, Christian vigils and similar programmes, are suspended until further notice,” he stated.
Mark further directed that festival fireworks be prohibited, while worship centres must shorten their services. “Sunday services and mosque prayers should be conducted quickly and closed on time,” he said.
He urged residents to support the directive and cooperate with security agents, stressing that community involvement remains crucial to restoring peace.
Omala LGA has recorded multiple kidnapping incidents and communal clashes in recent months, prompting the state government to establish a forward operational base to tackle the escalating insecurity.
