Kogi govt condemns killings, orders arrest of vigilante and attackers

The Kogi state government has strongly condemned a series of reprisal killings that occurred in the Abugi, Kuchinda, and Mikugi communities within Kupa Kingdom, Lokoja Local Government Area. Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, stated on Thursday that all perpetrators will be apprehended and prosecuted.

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The Kogi government condemns in the strongest terms, both the killing of the unarmed herder and subsequent reprisal attack.

Fanwo described the incidents as tragic, senseless, and unacceptable, emphasizing that misunderstandings should never escalate to the loss of innocent lives. Governor Ahmed Ododo extended his condolences to the bereaved families and the Kupa Kingdom, praying for the repose of the deceased and comfort for those affected. Preliminary reports indicate the crisis erupted after a local vigilante allegedly shot and killed an unarmed herder, suspecting him of cattle rustling.

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These are criminal acts that have no place in our society.

This initial killing was reportedly followed by a reprisal attack carried out by armed individuals who targeted innocent residents in the affected communities, resulting in multiple fatalities and escalating tensions. The Kogi government unequivocally condemned both the killing of the herder and the subsequent reprisal attacks, labeling them as criminal acts with no place in society. Fanwo assured that anyone involved, regardless of status or ethnic affiliation, would face the full extent of the law.

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Anyone found to have participated in either incident, regardless of status or ethnic affiliation, will face the full wrath of the law.

Governor Ododo has directed security agencies to take control of the communities, restore order, and prevent further violence. He specifically ordered the immediate arrest of the vigilante member accused of the herder's death and the individuals behind the reprisal, including the suspected leader of the Hybrid Vigilante Group. The government is collaborating with security agencies, traditional rulers, and community leaders to restore lasting peace and rebuild confidence among the affected communities, reaffirming its commitment to protecting residents and upholding justice.

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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.