The Kogi State Government has introduced sweeping security measures in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area, including a ban on commercial motorcycle operations in designated rural communities, market closures, restrictions on fuel sales, and a statewide prohibition on night travel after 7:00 pm. The measures took effect immediately and were announced on Saturday, June 13, in a statement by Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo.
Background of the Security Measures
The government stated that the directives followed ongoing security operations in Bunu District after a recent terrorist attack on Iluke community that was successfully repelled by security forces. Intelligence reports indicate that joint security forces have made significant gains, neutralizing several attackers and leaving others injured while trapped in forested areas. To prevent fleeing criminals from receiving supplies, the government imposed an immediate ban on commercial motorcycle operations across several routes in Bunu District.
Affected Routes
The affected areas include the corridor from Idoyi Bunu through Illah Bunu, Iluke Bunu, and Kiri, as well as the route from Iluke Bunu through Odai Bunu, Igbo Bunu, Ilogun Bunu, Olle Bunu, Ayede Bunu, Oke-Ofin Bunu, and Edumo Bunu. Restrictions also apply to the Ayede Bunu, Aherin, Eshi, and Ighun Bunu corridor and all other routes within the Bunu hinterlands.
Reasons for the Ban
The government explained that security intelligence identified motorcycle operators as a major channel for transporting food, water, drugs, and other essential items to bandits hiding in forests. Some criminal elements also use motorcycles to gather intelligence on communities before attacks. The government warned that violators would face severe legal consequences under the Kogi State Anti-Terrorism Law.
Market and Medicine Restrictions
All markets along the affected corridors have been ordered shut until further notice. Mobile medicine vendors and drug distributors must suspend transportation and sale of medicines on motorcycles within affected communities during the security operation. Additionally, the sale of petrol and diesel in jerricans is banned throughout Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area to prevent fuel supplies from reaching bandits.
Statewide Night Travel Ban
The government also announced a statewide restriction on movement along all state-owned roads after 7:00 pm. All movements on state roads must cease by 7:00 pm daily until further notice. Anyone found travelling after this time will be arrested and prosecuted.
Enforcement and Warnings
The government has credible intelligence on individuals collaborating with criminal groups and is taking action against them. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has directed security agencies to ensure strict enforcement. Anyone aiding, supplying, harbouring, or collaborating with terrorists will be treated as an accomplice and prosecuted.
Recent Attack
On Wednesday, a deadly attack by suspected bandits on Government Secondary School in Iluke Bunu left three people dead, including a vice principal and a six-year-old boy. The attackers, arriving on about 40 motorcycles, aimed to kidnap students and residents. The Divisional Police Officer of Kabba 'A' Division activated a joint security response after distress calls.
