By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
At least seven persons were killed on Thursday following reprisal attacks on Abugi, Kuchinda, Mikugi, Guchidan and Balagan communities in Kupa Kingdom, Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State.
Sources said the crisis started after members of a local vigilante group stopped a Fulani man on a motorcycle to identify himself. The man allegedly refused to comply and was shot dead on suspicion of cattle rustling.
Following news of the killing, other Fulani residents in the area reportedly mobilized and launched reprisals armed with guns and dangerous weapons, killing seven residents of the affected communities.
The Kogi State Government has condemned the killings and commiserated with the bereaved families. In a statement, Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, described the incident as “tragic, senseless and unacceptable,” stressing that no misunderstanding should lead to loss of lives.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, according to Fanwo, has directed security agencies to take full control of Kupa Kingdom, restore peace and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
The governor also ordered the immediate arrest of the vigilante member alleged to have killed the herder, as well as those behind the reprisals, including the leader of the Hybrid Vigilante Group suspected of coordinating the attack.
“We appeal to all residents to remain calm and resist the temptation of reprisals. We also urge members of the public to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information,” Fanwo said.
The government said it is working with security agencies, traditional rulers and community leaders to restore lasting peace and rebuild confidence in the affected communities.
