The Kogi State Government has expressed deep condolences to the families of victims of the tragic reprisal killings that occurred in Abugi, Kuchinda, and Mikugi communities within the Kupa Kingdom, Lokoja Local Government Area. The government has vowed that all those responsible for the violence will be apprehended and brought to justice.
Government Condemns Violence and Vows Justice
In an official statement released on Thursday, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, described the incident as tragic, senseless, and completely unacceptable. He emphasized that no misunderstanding or dispute should ever lead to the loss of innocent lives. The commissioner stressed that the state government condemns in the strongest terms both the initial killing of an unarmed herder and the subsequent reprisal attack that followed.
"These are criminal acts that have no place in our society. Anyone found to have participated in either incident, regardless of status or ethnic affiliation, will face the full wrath of the law," Fanwo stated. He further disclosed that Governor Ahmed Ododo has extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and the entire Kupa Kingdom, praying for the peaceful repose of the deceased and comfort for those left behind.
Details of the Crisis and Security Directives
Preliminary reports indicate that the crisis began when an unarmed herder was allegedly shot and killed by a member of the local vigilante group on suspicion of cattle rustling. This act triggered a violent reprisal by armed persons who targeted innocent residents of Abugi, Kuchinda, and Mikugi, leading to multiple deaths and heightened tension across the area.
In response, Governor Ododo has directed security agencies to take immediate control of the affected communities, restore peace, and prevent any further breakdown of law and order. The governor has also ordered the immediate arrest of the vigilante member alleged to have killed the herder, as well as those behind the reprisal, including the leader of the Hybrid Vigilante Group suspected of coordinating the assault.
Appeal for Calm and Cooperation
The commissioner appealed to residents to remain calm and resist any temptation to engage in further reprisals. He urged members of the public to cooperate fully with security agencies by providing credible information that could aid investigations and lead to more arrests. "The governor has ordered the immediate arrest of the vigilante member, alleged to have killed the herder, as well as those behind the reprisal, including the leader of the Hybrid Vigilante Group suspected to have coordinated the assault," Fanwo reiterated.
The state government is working closely with security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders to restore lasting peace across the Kupa Kingdom and rebuild confidence among the affected communities. The government reiterated its commitment to protecting every resident of Kogi State, upholding justice, strengthening peaceful coexistence, and ensuring that criminals have no hiding place in the state.
