The Kogi State Government has announced a series of stringent security measures across parts of Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area, including a ban on commercial motorcycle operations in affected communities, the closure of markets, restrictions on fuel sales, and a statewide ban on movement on state-owned roads after 7:00 p.m.
The directives, which take immediate effect, were disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo.
According to the government, the measures follow ongoing security operations in Bunu District after security forces repelled a recent terrorist attack on Iluke community. It said intelligence reports indicate that several attackers were neutralised, while others who sustained injuries remain trapped in nearby forests.
To cut off the criminals’ supply network, the government prohibited commercial motorcycle operations along several routes within the Bunu hinterlands. Authorities said investigations revealed that motorcycles were being used to transport food, water, medicines, and other supplies to bandits hiding in forest camps. Some riders were also allegedly involved in gathering intelligence for the criminals before attacks.
The government warned that anyone found violating the directive would be prosecuted under the Kogi State Anti-Terrorism Law, adding that the Motorcycle Operators Association of Nigeria (MOAN) should immediately sensitise its members on the restrictions.
As part of the security measures, all markets located along the affected corridors have also been shut until further notice. Mobile medicine vendors and drug distributors were directed to suspend the transportation and sale of medicines on motorcycles within the affected communities.
The state further imposed a ban on the sale of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) and Automotive Gas Oil (diesel) in jerricans across Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area, explaining that the move is aimed at preventing fuel supplies from reaching criminal groups operating in remote locations.
Beyond the local government area, the administration announced a statewide restriction on night travel along all state-owned roads. Under the directive, movement on such roads must cease by 7:00 p.m. daily until further notice, with violators liable to arrest and prosecution.
The government said it possesses credible intelligence linking some individuals to the activities of criminal groups and assured residents that appropriate action is being taken against those involved.
While acknowledging that the restrictions may temporarily inconvenience residents and businesses, the state government maintained that safeguarding lives and property remains its highest priority.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has directed security agencies to enforce the measures strictly and warned that anyone found aiding, harbouring, supplying, or collaborating with terrorists would be treated as an accomplice and prosecuted accordingly.