The Kogi State Government has ordered the arrest of a vigilante group leader and other suspects following the death of a herder, which triggered reprisal killings in Abugi, Kuchinda, and Mikugi communities within Kupa Kingdom, Lokoja Local Government Area.
Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr Kingsley Fanwo, announced the directive in a statement issued on Thursday, extending the government’s condolences to the bereaved families while vowing that all perpetrators would be apprehended and prosecuted.
Describing the incident as “tragic, senseless, and unacceptable,” Fanwo emphasised that no misunderstanding should result in the loss of innocent lives.
Governor Ahmed Ododo extended heartfelt condolences to the affected families and the entire Kupa Kingdom, praying for the peaceful repose of the deceased and comfort for those grieving.
Genesis of the Crisis
Preliminary reports indicate that the crisis began when an unarmed herder was allegedly shot and killed by a member of the local vigilante on suspicion of cattle rustling. This was followed by a reprisal attack, reportedly carried out by armed individuals targeting innocent residents of the three communities, resulting in multiple deaths and heightened tension.
“The Kogi government condemns in the strongest terms both the killing of the unarmed herder and the subsequent reprisal attack,” Fanwo stated. “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.”
Security Measures
The governor has directed security agencies to take control of the affected communities, restore peace, and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
“The governor has ordered the immediate arrest of the vigilante member alleged to have killed the herder, as well as those behind the reprisal attack, including the leader of the Hybrid Vigilante Group suspected to have coordinated the assault,” Fanwo disclosed.
Appeal for Calm
The commissioner appealed to residents to remain calm and resist retaliatory actions, urging the public to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information to aid investigations.
The state government is working closely with security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders to restore lasting peace across Kupa Kingdom and rebuild confidence among affected communities.
Fanwo reiterated the Ododo administration’s commitment to protecting every resident of Kogi, stressing that the government will continue to uphold justice, strengthen peaceful coexistence, and ensure criminals find no hiding place in the state.