Kogi Lawmaker Cries Out Over Worsening Insecurity In Constituency

Hon. Ibikunle Idowu, the lawmaker representing Yagba West State Constituency in the Kogi State House of Assembly, has raised an urgent alarm over the escalating insecurity in his constituency, particularly in Ogbe Community of Yagba West Local Government Area. Speaking during a motion of Urgent Public Importance on Tuesday, the lawmaker highlighted the severe challenges the community is facing due to persistent violence, including daily killings, abductions, and the targeting of young men.

Ogbe, a predominantly farming community with both a first-class and third-class traditional ruler, has been severely impacted by insecurity, making it difficult for residents to go about their daily activities, especially farming. Idowu cited the recent killing of a young community member and the abduction of two others, who are still missing, as key indicators of the urgency of the situation.

Idowu pointed out that Ogbe’s location, bordering Ekiti State, has made it a hotspot for criminal activity, and he called for the immediate deployment of security personnel, including vigilantes, to monitor the area and combat the marauding attackers. He urged the Kogi State Government and relevant authorities to take swift action to restore peace.

The lawmaker also proposed the establishment of a community vigilante group to collaborate with security agencies, gather intelligence, and prevent further attacks. Additionally, he emphasized the need to support farmers and local entrepreneurs to recover from the economic damage caused by the insecurity and recommended a dialogue between community leaders, security agencies, and other stakeholders to address underlying issues and promote reconciliation.

Hon. Abu Onoru-Oiza Jibrin, the Member representing Ajaokuta State Constituency, seconded the motion, expressing concern over the widespread insecurity in the state and urging security agencies to intensify efforts to prevent further crimes.

In response, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Aliyu Umar Yusuf, directed the House Committee on Security and Vigilante to investigate the issue and take appropriate action.