Markets, Motor Parks Shut in Parts of Kogi West as Security Operations Intensify

AkoniTV February 8, 2026 News Leave a comment 30 Views

The Kogi State Government has announced the temporary closure of selected markets and motor parks across parts of the Kogi West Senatorial District to support ongoing, large-scale security operations aimed at flushing out terrorists, bandits, and other criminal elements.

The operations are being carried out through a coordinated effort involving the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and heads of security agencies in the state. According to the government, the decision to shut down markets and motor parks was reached after consultations with security agencies and relevant local authorities, and is intended to cut off logistics, restrict movement, and deny criminal networks access to food supplies and other forms of support.

In Lokoja Local Government Area, the affected locations include Oshokoshoko Market and Motor Park, Jakura, Ogbagbon, Agbaja, Atsawa, Obajana, Apata, Abugi, Amomi, Ebee, and Budon.

In Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, markets and motor parks in Ike Bunu, Aba Marian (Isado), Ofere, Abaa Dola (Ihale Bunu), Aiyede, Oke Offin, Aiyegunle Bunu, Okebukun, Odo Ape Bunu, Agbadu Bunu, and Agbede Apa Bunu are affected.

Yagba West Local Government Area closures cover Okoloke, Isanlu Esa, Okunran, Ogbe, Ejiba, Odo Eri, Igbaruku, Iyamerin, Ogga, Omi, Odo Ara, and Oke Ere.

In Yagba East Local Government Area, markets and motor parks in Irunda Ile, Iyeh Ilotin, Gada, Odogbe, and Ilafin will remain closed during the operation.

For Kogi Local Government Area, the shutdown applies to the Rice Market at Adingere, Koton Karfe, Okpareke, Girinya, the Okro Market at Opanda, and the Perishable Market at Edeha.

In Mopamuro Local Government Area, affected communities include Otafun Amuro, Oroke Amuro, Takete Ide Amuro, Okeagi, Illai, Ilemo, and Ijagbe.

The government stressed that the closures are temporary and will be lifted immediately after the successful conclusion of the security operations.

Authorities reported significant progress already recorded in the ongoing clearance operations. Sixteen kidnapped victims have been rescued from a camp belonging to a notorious bandit leader, Kachalla Battijo, located within the Tunga Forest. Security forces have overrun and taken control of the camp, while operations continue to ensure the complete elimination of criminal elements across affected areas.

The Kogi State Government reaffirmed its policy of not negotiating with bandits or paying ransom under any circumstance. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Director General of the Department of State Services, Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi, and all security chiefs at both national and state levels for their support and the successes recorded so far.

While acknowledging the hardship the temporary closures may cause traders and residents, the government said the measure is necessary to restore lasting peace and security, noting that movements within the affected areas will be closely monitored to reduce collateral damage.

Governor Ododo has directed the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (Rtd.), to work closely with all security agencies to ensure strict compliance. Local Government Chairmen have also been instructed to monitor implementation within their jurisdictions and submit regular situation reports, while the Ministry of Information and Communications will intensify grassroots sensitization.

The government appealed to residents for understanding, cooperation, and support, describing the measures as critical steps taken in the collective interest of public safety and peace across the state.

Signed:

Kingsley Femi Fanwo

Hon. Commissioner for Information and Communications