Police confirm Farouq’s release, investigate Kogi attacks

The Kogi State Police Command has moved to clarify the circumstances surrounding the arrest and subsequent release of activist Farouq Ozigi Onimisi, asserting that all legal procedures were strictly adhered to. This statement comes in response to significant criticism from rights groups, including Amnesty International, and opposition figures who alleged a violation of due process and an attack on freedom of expression. The police spokesperson, Afusat Saliu, detailed Onimisi's arrest on April 25, his arraignment on multiple charges including conspiracy and inciting disturbance, and his eventual release on bail on May 6. The command's insistence on following "established legal and procedural frameworks" aims to counter narratives of repression and abuse of power, particularly claims that the arrest was linked to a planned protest against state authorities. Meanwhile, the police are also addressing renewed communal violence in the Ibaji Local Government Area, confirming a clash between the Itale and Ishi communities. This highlights a broader security challenge in the region, involving disputes over land and fishing ponds, which has led to burning of property and displacement of villagers. Premium Times, in its reporting, seeks to present a balanced view, detailing both the police's official account and the concerns raised by civil society and relatives, while also covering the ongoing security issues in other parts of the state.

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The Command wishes to state unequivocally that at no time was due process violated, as all actions were carried out strictly within established legal and procedural frameworks.