Kogi Govt Bans Okada, Night Travel After 7pm, Shuts Markets in Bunu to Cut Bandits’ Supply
By Temiloluwa Samuel
The Kogi State Government has imposed sweeping security restrictions in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area, banning commercial motorcycle operations, night travel after 7pm, market activities, and fuel sales in jerricans to cut off supply lines to bandits hiding in Bunu hinterlands.
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In a press release signed Saturday by Commissioner for Information Kingsley Femi Fanwo, the government said the measures take effect immediately following a recent terrorist attack on Iluke community that was repelled by Joint Security Forces.
Intelligence reports indicate several attackers were neutralized while others remain trapped in forests across Bunu District.
All commercial motorcycles, popularly called Okada, are banned along designated hinterland corridors including Idoyi Bunu through Illah, Iluke, Kiri, Odai, Igbo, Ilogun, Olle, Ayede, Oke-Ofin, and Edumo Bunu, plus the Ayede-Aherin-Eshi-Ighun route.
Government said intelligence shows Okada riders are used to transport food, water, drugs, fuel and other logistics to bandits, and for reconnaissance before attacks. Riders caught violating the ban will be prosecuted under the Kogi State Anti-Terrorism Law. The Motorcycle Operators Association of Nigeria, MOAN, has been directed to sensitize members.
All markets along affected corridors will remain closed until further notice. Mobile medicine vendors are also barred from transporting or selling drugs on motorcycles in the area. Additionally, sale of petrol and diesel in jerricans is prohibited across the entire Kabba/Bunu LGA.
To deny criminals cover of darkness, the government announced a statewide ban on night travel on all state-owned roads. All movement must cease by 7:00pm daily until further notice. Violators will be arrested and prosecuted.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has directed security agencies to enforce the directives strictly. The government warned that anyone found aiding, supplying, or harbouring terrorists will be treated as an accomplice and prosecuted.
The government acknowledged the restrictions will cause hardship for residents but said protecting lives remains paramount. It noted the situation will be reviewed every two weeks to assess impact and decide next steps based on security progress.
Residents have been urged to cooperate with security agencies and provide credible information to help eliminate criminal elements from the state.
The restrictions follow intensified military operations in Bunu District after the failed attack on Iluke community. Authorities say the measures aim to consolidate gains by denying trapped bandits access to essential supplies.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, JUNE 13TH 2026)
