Kogi bans night travel over banditry concerns
Kogi State Implements New Security Measures Amid Rising Banditry
KOGI STATE — The Kogi State government has announced a series of security measures, including a ban on night travel and restrictions on commercial motorcycle operations, aimed at combating increasing banditry within the Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area.
The announcement was made by Kingsley Fanwo, the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, following a review of security operations in the Bunu District. The decision to implement these measures came after security assessments and intelligence reports regarding a recent attack on the Iluke community. Officials stated that security forces successfully repelled the assault.
In a statement, the government confirmed that multiple assailants were neutralized, while others sustained injuries and remain hidden in wooded areas as security operations continue. To prevent the transport of supplies to criminal groups, the use of commercial motorcycles—commonly referred to as Okada—has been banned in specific corridors of Bunu District.
The affected routes include those connecting communities such as Idoyi Bunu, Illah Bunu, Iluke Bunu, and Kiri. Authorities indicated that motorcycle operators have been implicated in transporting food, water, and medical supplies to bandits and gathering intelligence on local communities.
“Any motorcycle rider found transporting passengers, goods, or supplies along the designated routes will be apprehended and prosecuted in accordance with the Kogi State Anti-Terrorism Law,” the statement read.
The Motorcycle Operators Association of Nigeria has been directed to inform its members of the new restrictions, which took effect on June 13, 2026. Additionally, all markets situated along the specified corridors have been ordered to close until further notice, and mobile medicine vendors must cease the transportation and sale of drugs by motorcycle in these areas.
The government also prohibited the sale of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and diesel in jerry cans throughout Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area. Alongside these measures, a statewide restriction on night travel has been implemented, mandating that movement on state roads must halt by 7 p.m. daily. The statement warned that individuals found traveling on state-owned roads after this time could face arrest and prosecution.
