The Kogi Government has expressed sorrow for the families affected by the killings in Abugi, Kuchinda, and Mikugi communities in Kupa Kingdom, Lokoja Local Government Area.
In a statement on Thursday, Kingsley Fanwo, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, promised that all those responsible would be caught and punished.
He called the incident tragic, senseless, and unacceptable, saying that no disagreement should lead to the death of innocent people.
Mr Fanwo said Governor Ahmed Ododo sent heartfelt condolences to the grieving families and everyone in Kupa Kingdom. He prayed for the souls of the deceased and comfort for those they left behind.
Preliminary reports indicate that the conflict started when an unarmed herder was allegedly shot and killed by a local vigilante member who suspected him of cattle rustling.
The commissioner stated that this killing led to a reprisal attack by armed individuals who targeted innocent residents in Abugi, Kuchinda, and Mikugi. This resulted in several deaths and increased tension in the area.
“The Kogi government strongly condemns both the killing of the unarmed herder and the following retaliatory attack. These are criminal acts that have no place in our society.
“Anyone involved in either incident, no matter their status or ethnic background, will face the full force of the law,” Fanwo declared.
The commissioner revealed that the governor has instructed security agencies to take charge of the affected communities, restore peace, and prevent any further breakdown of law and order.
“The governor has ordered the immediate arrest of the vigilante member accused of killing the herder, as well as those behind the reprisal attack, including the leader of the Hybrid Vigilante Group believed to have organized the assault.”
He urged residents to stay calm and avoid retaliation. He also asked the public to help security agencies by providing useful information to support investigations and arrests.
He mentioned that the state government is collaborating with security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders to bring lasting peace to Kupa Kingdom and rebuild trust among the affected communities.
The commissioner reiterated the commitment of Governor Ododo's administration to protect all Kogi residents. He emphasized that the government will continue to seek justice, promote peaceful coexistence, and ensure that criminals have no safe haven in the state.
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