…Calls For Calm, Cooperation With Security Agents

The Kogi State Government has commiserated with the families of those who lost their lives in the unfortunate incident that occurred yesterday in Irunda community, Yagba East Local Government Area.

The death of three of our citizens in separate but related circumstances is a painful tragedy, and the Government extends heartfelt condolences to their families and loved ones. We also pray for the swift recovery of those who sustained injuries.

A press statement on Thursday by Kingsley Femi Fanwo, Commissioner for Information and Communications, noted that reports available to the Government, shows that some fleeing bandits were intercepted outside Irunda community by residents who made efforts to block their escape route.

The statement reads, “The criminals opened fire on them, leading to the death of two members of the community, while another sustained gunshot wounds and is currently receiving medical treatment.

‘In reaction to the sad development, some youths took to the streets in protest. When military personnel arrived to restore calm, they were reportedly blocked and attacked by a section of the protesters. The confrontation resulted in the death of one youth, while several military officers sustained varying degrees of injuries.

“His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Executive Governor of Kogi State, has called for calm and urged the youth of Irunda and surrounding communities to cooperate fully with security agencies working tirelessly to contain criminal activities in the area. He emphasised that attacking security operatives can never resolve insecurity but will only escalate tensions and endanger more lives.

“The Governor also appealed to security agencies to continue to exercise the highest level of restraint and professionalism in the discharge of their duties, even under provocation, as the protection of lives remains the ultimate priority. The State Security Adviser has been asked to coordinate a thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to the protest and the actions of the protesters and security agencies, with a view to averting future occurrences.

“The Kogi State Government remains unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding all communities across the state. Governor Ododo has directed an intensified security operation in the area to apprehend the fleeing bandits and prevent further breakdown of law and order.”