Ajaka condemns Kogi killing, calls for prompt action

Alhaji Yakubu Ajaka, Social Democratic Party (SDP), Governorship Candidate for Nov. 11, 2023 Off-Cycle election, has condemned the massacre perpetrated by bandits at Agojeju-Odo community in Omala Local Government of Kogi.

Ajaka, who made the remarks in a statement in Lokoja on Saturday, also called for immediate action to stop the incessant attacks in the area by bandits.

A total of 25 persons were reportedly killed by bandits on Thursday, in an attack that left several people injured and farm produce destroyed.

Ajaka condemned the reoccurring maiming and killing of innocent kogites in Bagana, Otutubatu, Iyade, Agbenema, Agojeju-Odo and other affected communities in Omala LGA.

“The life of every citizen is sacred and important and it is the responsibility of the state government to protect the masses against internal and external aggression.

“It is high time the state government sat-up to its primary responsibility of securing Kogi.

“I urge the current occupants of Lugard House to put an end to the crises and heightened insecurity in Kogi by mobilizing all the resources needed to solve the present conflict and to prevent future occurrence,” he said.

He called for immediate deployment of the security apparatus of the state to maintain order and stability in the affected areas.

Consequently, he called on President Bola Tinubu’s led Federal Government to intervene in the matter to save the citizens.

“I am certain that the President will not allow his government to be overrun with insecurity in any part of the country and therefore, Kogi State should not be allowed to turn into a killing field.

“The safety of lives is the first priority in governance.

“I am also appealing to the Inspector General of Police, all the Service Chiefs and the National Security Adviser to swiftly intervene and thoroughly investigate the cause of the persistent crisis.

“I hereby seek for humanitarian assistance for those displaced by the conflict,” he said.

Ajaka, however, shared in the grief of the families of those that lost their lives in the unfortunate incident.

He called on the people to be steadfast and cooperate with the security forces for the restoration of peace in the affected communities.