The Kogi State Government has ordered the immediate closure of Zango Market in Osara and banned roadside parking of trucks in the area due to escalating security concerns.
Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Fanwo, stated that intelligence reports revealed the market and parked trucks were being used as hideouts by criminal elements. These activities posed significant threats to the Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara, and the surrounding community.
To ensure compliance, the state government has granted a one-week grace period starting Wednesday. Following this, strict enforcement will commence. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has directed the Secretary to the State Government to communicate the decision to all stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies.
Additionally, the Office of the State Security Adviser has been tasked with overseeing security operations in the area during and after the grace period.
In a related development, insecurity continues to plague Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, where a recent wave of kidnappings has left residents in fear. Victims include the newly elected Odo-Ape ward councilor, Alaba Ope, and eight others abducted from their communities. An 18-passenger bus was also ambushed, with all occupants kidnapped.
Local residents have called for urgent intervention from security agencies and the government to secure the release of kidnapped individuals and protect the area.
Efforts to obtain a response from the Nigeria Police were unsuccessful as of the time of reporting.
The Kogi State Government remains committed to combating crime and ensuring the safety of its citizens during the yuletide season and beyond.
