By Stephen Adeleye
THE KOGI State Government has ordered the immediate closure of Zango Market and banned roadside parking of trucks in its vicinity in Osara, Adavi Local Government Area of the state.
The Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Fanwo, in a statement on Wednesday in Lokoja, said the decision was in response to the growing security concerns in Osara and its environs.
Fanwo said that the measures were aimed at preventing a potential security crisis in the area.
According to him, intelligence reports indicate that criminal elements have been using the market as a hideout, often in collaboration with some truck drivers who park along the roadside.
“This situation poses a significant security threat to the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH) Osara, and the broader Osara community.
“To ensure strict compliance, the State Government has given market operators and truck drivers a one-week grace period, starting today (Wednesday) to adhere to these directives.
“Gov. Ahmed Ododo, has directed the Secretary to the State Government to officially communicate this order to all relevant parties, including law enforcement agencies, to ensure seamless compliance,” he said.
Fanwo added that the governor has tasked the Office of the State Security Adviser to oversee security operations in the affected areas during and after the grace period.
He reassured the residents of the state government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding their lives and property.
He said: “Proactive measures will continue to be taken to ensure that criminal activities are eradicated, leaving no room for lawlessness in the state.
“We also extend our gratitude to the citizens for their vigilance and active participation in the community-driven security framework.
“Your efforts in providing timely intelligence and activating grassroots security networks are invaluable to the success of our collective mission to keep Kogi safe”. (NAN)
