Olu Samuel

Chairman of Omala Local Government Area of Kogi State, Edibo Peter Mark has imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew following growing security concerns in the Local government area

The curfew, which runs from 7:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., started on December 2 and will remain in place until further notice.

The council also announced 24-hour security surveillance and patrols across all communities.

In a statement on Thursday the Chairman said the decision was part of urgent steps to protect lives and property.

“To strengthen safety measures security agencies are directed to intensify checks at entry points. All border routes must undergo strict stop-and-search operations with the Joint Task Force fully deployed,” he said.

The council also placed restrictions on religious activities.

According to the chairman, “All public gatherings, including Moulud, Christian vigils and similar programmes, are suspended until further notice.”

He added that festival fireworks are banned, while churches and mosques must keep worship hours brief.

“Sunday services and mosque prayers should be conducted quickly and closed on time,” he said.

Mark appealed to residents to obey the order and work with security agencies.

He noted that public cooperation is necessary to restore peace across the council area.

Omala local government area of Kogi state have had it fair share of security breaches recently prompting the state government to open a forward operational base to stem the tides of several kidnapping and communal clashes in the area.