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From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
The Executive Chairman of Omala Local Government Area, Kogi State, Hon. Edibo Ameh Mark Peters, has outlined ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity in the council, citing progress made while ordering armed groups to vacate the area.
In a statement released on Friday, the chairman said his administration inherited a “deeply troubling security situation” upon assuming office in January 2023, with communities such as Agbenema, Obakume, and Bagana already affected by violent clashes.
He explained that early interventions included peace talks involving herders, settlers, traditional rulers, and security agencies aimed at promoting coexistence.
“However, these efforts failed to halt violence, which included attacks by Agatu militia on cattle, destruction of farmlands, and retaliatory assaults by armed herders”. He said.
The chairman noted that the cycle of violence led to loss of lives and widespread destruction of property across the local government.
To address the crisis, the council intensified collaboration with the Kogi State Government, lawmakers, and security agencies, resulting in the establishment of a Forward Operational Base (FOB) in Bagana community.
According to him, the move has helped restore relative peace in parts of the area.
Despite these gains, Peters expressed concern over recent attacks, including an incident at Efuoko Odo forest between Agojeju Odo and Odomagwu Odo communities, where three people, including Isah Abdul, were killed.
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Following the attack, the chairman issued an executive order directing all armed herders and Agatu militia to leave Omala LGA, with security agencies now enforcing the directive.
He identified the Patanyi axis as the main stronghold of armed groups responsible for ongoing violence, describing it as a key operational base and the “last major obstacle” to lasting peace.
Areas within and around Patanyi, including parts of neighbouring Bassa LGA, were said to harbour militia camps and serve as launch points for attacks.
Peters linked a recent incident on March 25 in Idrisu village, which left two women dead, to activities originating from the Patanyi axis, reinforcing its status as a critical security concern.
He said authorities are now focusing on a final phase of operations aimed at dismantling militia hideouts, clearing armed elements from forests, and ending attacks on local communities.
The chairman called on residents to remain calm, support security agencies with credible information, and avoid actions capable of escalating tensions.
He also urged unity among the people, stressing that sustainable development cannot occur in an atmosphere of insecurity.
Hon. Peters reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring residents that efforts are being intensified to eliminate remaining threats and restore lasting peace across Omala LGA.
