In a bid to ensure security and maintain order, Amoka Monday, the Chairman of Okehi Local Government Area (LGA) in Kogi State, has imposed a curfew across the council area. The decision comes in light of a scheduled constituency visit by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a prominent political figure from the region. The curfew is aimed at curbing potential unrest and preventing the gathering of large crowds, especially after the local government’s recent ban on political rallies and unregulated public gatherings.
The imposition of the curfew is part of ongoing efforts by the local government to address growing security concerns in Okehi LGA, a region that has seen rising tensions due to political activities in recent months. The curfew is expected to be enforced in the hours leading up to and during Akpoti-Uduaghan’s visit, which has sparked controversy due to the sensitive nature of political events in the area. In a statement, Chairman Amoka Monday explained that the decision was a precautionary measure to prevent the escalation of violence, which could be triggered by political rivalries and tensions between supporters of various political figures.
“We cannot afford to take chances with the security of our people. With the recent increase in political activities and the current climate of unrest, it is necessary to take these steps to ensure that peace prevails,” Amoka said in his announcement.
The curfew, which restricts movement during certain hours, is expected to last until after the visit has concluded. Security forces, including the Nigerian Police Force and other law enforcement agencies, have been deployed in the area to ensure that the curfew is adhered to and that public safety is maintained.
Okehi LGA had earlier enforced a ban on political rallies and unregulated public gatherings in a bid to control the rising tensions in the region. The ban was put in place following clashes between rival political groups in the months leading up to the visit. The local government had expressed concern that such events could create opportunities for violence and disrupt the peace of the community.
The decision to impose such measures, though criticized by some opposition parties, is seen by many as a necessary step to curb violence and ensure the safety of residents. Supporters of the ban argue that political rallies in the area have become increasingly difficult to regulate, leading to incidents of violence and unrest.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s upcoming constituency visit has been viewed as a significant event for the people of Okehi and Kogi State at large. Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, has become a key political figure in the region, known for her advocacy on issues related to infrastructural development, women’s rights, and economic empowerment.
Her visit, which includes a series of engagements with constituents, is expected to focus on addressing local issues, particularly in the areas of healthcare, education, and youth development. However, the visit has also stirred up political controversy, especially as she is seen as a potential challenger in upcoming elections. This has further intensified the already volatile political environment in the area.
The imposition of the curfew, therefore, comes at a time of heightened sensitivity, as supporters and opponents of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s visit are expected to mobilize in anticipation of her arrival. Local political figures, including those aligned with the ruling party, have raised concerns that the visit could spark protests or counter-protests, leading to unrest if not properly managed.
While some residents of Okehi LGA have expressed support for the curfew, citing the need for security and peace, others have criticized the move, arguing that it restricts their fundamental rights to free movement and political participation. Critics of the curfew believe that it is an attempt to stifle political dissent, particularly by limiting the ability of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s supporters to freely engage in her visit.
A member of the opposition, speaking under condition of anonymity, described the curfew as a politically motivated move designed to suppress the voice of the people in the region. “It’s clear that this is more about silencing political opposition than ensuring security. The people have the right to attend public events and express their support for their elected representatives,” the source said.
However, many in the region acknowledge the reality of heightened security concerns. In a statement, a local community leader called on residents to respect the curfew, emphasizing the importance of peace and safety for the community. “We want everyone to understand that this is a time to prioritize peace over politics,” the leader said.
As the date for Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s constituency visit approaches, all eyes will be on how the situation unfolds in Okehi LGA. The curfew and the ongoing political tensions present a challenging situation for local authorities, who must balance security with the rights of citizens to engage in the political process.
With both the ruling and opposition parties closely monitoring developments, it remains to be seen whether the measures taken by the local government will effectively prevent violence or whether they will further inflame political rivalries in the area. What is clear, however, is that Okehi LGA is at a crossroads, where ensuring public safety while maintaining democratic freedoms will be key to preserving peace during the politically charged period leading up to 2027 elections.
As Nigeria moves closer to the next general election, the case in Okehi LGA may serve as an example of the delicate balance that will need to be struck between maintaining security and ensuring the free expression of political will across the country.
