The Kogi State Government has ordered security agencies to arrest everyone linked to the deadly reprisal attacks that claimed several lives in Abugi, Kuchinda and Mikugi communities in Kupa Kingdom, Lokoja Local Government Area.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo issued the directive after condemning both the alleged killing of an unarmed herder and the retaliatory attacks that followed, describing the incidents as criminal acts that would not go unpunished.
The directive was announced by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, who said the government had instructed security agencies to restore peace in the affected communities and ensure all those responsible are brought to justice, regardless of their ethnic background or social status.
According to the state government, preliminary findings indicate that the violence began after an unarmed herder was allegedly shot dead by a member of a local vigilante group over suspicions of cattle rustling. The incident was later followed by a reprisal attack by armed men who allegedly invaded Abugi, Kuchinda and Mikugi, leaving multiple people dead.
Fanwo disclosed that Governor Ododo specifically directed security agencies to arrest the vigilante member accused of killing the herder, as well as the individuals behind the retaliatory attacks, including the alleged leader of a Hybrid Vigilante Group believed to have coordinated the assault.
Describing the killings as tragic, senseless and unacceptable, the state government extended its condolences to the bereaved families and the people of Kupa Kingdom. It also appealed to residents to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands.
The government urged members of the public to support ongoing investigations by providing credible information that could help security agencies identify and apprehend those responsible. It added that traditional rulers, community leaders and security agencies were already working together to restore peace and prevent further violence.
The latest incident comes amid growing security concerns in Kogi State, which has witnessed a series of attacks and abductions in recent months. Authorities said additional security personnel have been deployed to the affected communities, while investigations into the killings remain ongoing.
