Kogi Assembly demands disbandment of Kupa vigilante groups after 12 killed
Kogi State Assembly Calls for Disbanding of Vigilante Groups Following Violent Clashes
KOGI, Nigeria — The Kogi State House of Assembly has called for the immediate disbandment of hybrid vigilante groups operating in the Kupa District of Lokoja Local Government Area. Lawmakers are also demanding the recovery of firearms in these groups’ possession.
This action follows a violent confrontation between the Kupa Community Vigilante Group and a hybrid counterpart that resulted in 12 fatalities and numerous injuries.
During a motion of urgent public importance, Speaker Rt. Hon. Aliyu Umar Yusuf outlined the events leading to the outbreak of violence, which occurred on August 6. He reported that the crisis began when a member of the hybrid group allegedly resisted a stop-and-search operation, subsequently opening fire on the community vigilantes.
The initial gunfire led to the death of a Fulani vigilante member and ignited a series of reprisal attacks in nearby communities. Yusuf detailed the aftermath: three individuals were killed in Eguchidan, six in Emiku, and two in Abugi during these retaliatory strikes.
Among those injured in the unrest was the Chief Imam of Kupa, Alhaji Gimba Aliyu, who is currently receiving medical treatment.
In light of the violence, Yusuf urged Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to dissolve all existing vigilante groups in Kupa District and retrieve any firearms they hold. He also recommended the deployment of forest guards, specifically suggesting the recruitment of trusted local residents familiar with the terrain to bolster security operations.
The House commended the Nigerian Army and local police for their prompt response to the crisis. However, they called for additional security personnel to be stationed at the Abugi Divisional Police Office.
Furthermore, lawmakers urged security agencies to intensify operations against armed groups taking refuge in surrounding forests and to enhance coordination among various security formations in the region. They also advocated for a comprehensive assessment of the affected communities and the implementation of urgent measures to prevent further violence and restore peace in Kupa District.
