The Kogi State Police Command has officially denied circulating rumors about a bandit invasion in several communities within Lokoja. The authorities have labeled the information as false and designed to create panic.
Police Statement on False Alarm
In a statement released on Thursday, November 27, 2025, the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP William Ovye Aya, addressed the public. He assured residents of Zango, Crusher, and Felele that the stories of a bandit invasion are completely untrue.
CSP Aya stated that the Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, has issued a stern warning to individuals spreading these false alarms. The police emphasized that such actions cause unnecessary fear and panic among the state's peaceful residents.
Security Assurance and Legal Consequences
The police spokesperson further warned that anyone found guilty of spreading false information will be arrested and prosecuted. To bolster public confidence, CP Kankarofi has reaffirmed the deployment of tactical teams to strategic locations across the state.
These units include the Police Mobile Force and counter-terrorism squads, all working to ensure the safety and security of everyone in Kogi State. Residents are encouraged to continue with their daily activities without fear.
Call for Public Vigilance
Security is described as a shared responsibility. The police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or movements to the authorities immediately.
The dedicated phone number for such reports is 07038329084. This collaborative effort is seen as crucial for maintaining peace in the state.
Related Security Update
In a related development, all 38 persons recently abducted from the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Oke-Isegun in Eruku community, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, have regained their freedom.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Kwara State Governor, Mallam Rafiu Ajakaye, confirmed the release last Sunday. He attributed the successful outcome to days of hard work by security forces and government representatives.
Ajakaye highlighted that President Bola Tinubu played a hands-on role, even canceling his scheduled trip to the G20 Meeting in South Africa to address the security breaches in Kwara and Kebbi States. The President also directed heightened security deployments to Kwara, underscoring his commitment to citizen safety.
The Governor of Kwara State expressed gratitude to the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Intelligence Agency (NIA), and the Nigeria Police for their roles in the operation.
