The Kogi State Government has cautioned churches across the state against holding late-night services, citing credible intelligence of planned attacks by bandits, The Bureau News reports.
State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, revealed that intercepted communications suggested a church in Ijumu Local Government Area was being targeted because it continued to operate late into the night. The criminals reportedly discussed kidnapping worshippers for ransom. Fanwo stressed that coordinated security measures are in place but urged strict adherence to the state’s preventive directives.
“No church is allowed to operate beyond 4:00pm,” Fanwo stated, advising those in isolated or bushy locations to relocate services for safety. He warned that violations would attract sanctions, adding that the directive is intended to protect lives, not restrict faith. Security operatives have been instructed to prevent pastors from holding night services, with the government prioritising crime prevention over post-incident responses.
In a related security development, Nigerian Army troops of the 12 Brigade, led by Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, dismantled a terrorist enclave linked to suspected kingpins Kachalla Ibrahim and Shu’aibu, seizing over 2,000 rounds of ammunition and grenades. The camp was destroyed to prevent further attacks.
Fanwo confirmed ongoing clearance operations, with Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo reaffirming the administration’s commitment to tackling criminality through proactive security measures and enforcement of preventive protocols.
