Amoka Monday, chairman of Okehi Local Government Area in Kogi State, has imposed a curfew across the council, citing security concerns. The decision comes ahead of a planned homecoming rally by suspended Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
In a statement personally signed by Monday, he explained that the curfew was necessary to maintain peace and order. He stated that the measure follows directives from the Kogi State Government and the police.
“The curfew, which takes immediate effect, restricts movement and gatherings in designated areas,” the statement read. “Anyone found loitering or assembling in restricted zones without clearance from relevant authorities will be arrested and prosecuted.”
Monday emphasized that the safety of residents remains a top priority and that any actions that could threaten peace and stability would not be tolerated. He described the curfew as a proactive measure to prevent potential security threats.
Earlier, the Kogi State Government had announced a ban on rallies and public gatherings, citing "credible security reports." Kingsley Fanwo, the state’s commissioner for information, stated that the decision was made to prevent threats that could destabilize the state.
Despite the restrictions, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s media office has confirmed that her visit to Kogi Central for the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations will proceed as planned. Her team assured residents that necessary arrangements had been made to ensure a peaceful and successful event.
In the early hours of Tuesday, the Kogi State Police Command urged Akpoti-Uduaghan to cancel her rally, citing intelligence reports of possible security risks.
Akpoti-Uduaghan has been in the spotlight following her six-month suspension from the Senate and allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Additionally, on March 26, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) notified her of a recall petition filed by some of her constituents. The petition reportedly gathered signatures from 250,000 voters out of the 488,000 registered in her constituency.
As tensions rise, it remains unclear how the situation will unfold, but security agencies have warned that any violations of the curfew will be met with legal consequences.
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