The National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa, has strongly condemned the violence and senseless killings targeting innocent residents of communities in Kogi State, notably in areas such as Bagana, Otutubatu, Iyade, Agbenema, Agojeju-Odo, and other affected regions within Omala Local Government Area.
He said this in an official statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Tony Olisa Mbeki, made available to NewdayReporters.
Reports say that unknown gunmen had invaded Agojeju Odo in Omala local government area of Kogi state, leaving 19 people dead and several houses set ablaze.
It can be recalled that gunmen attacked remote villages in the north-central Nigeria’s Plateau state, killing at least 140 people. In Benue, no fewer than 50 persons, including a family of seven, were feared dead following the invasion of the Gbagir community in Ukum Local Government Area of the State by suspected armed militia. Also, gunmen invaded Gindin Duste Makyali of the Kufana District, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, killing at least 12 people during the attack and many more in such attacks.
According to his statement, the APGA National Chairman deplored the escalating levels of insecurity and unlawful killings witnessed nationwide, stressing the urgent need for President Tinubu to take immediate action to tackle this concerning trend. Barr. Ezeokenwa commended the Nigerian Armed Forces and all security agencies for their bravery and unwavering dedication in striving to safeguard the nation.
Barr. Ezeokenwa further maintained that Nigerians should be able to live and work freely in any environment and feel that they are always protected.
Underscoring the paramount importance of the government’s role in ensuring the safety of its citizens and their possessions, the APGA Chairman highlighted that rebuilding trust in governance hinges on the effective protection of lives and property.
Ezeokenwa commiserated with the victims and families of these senseless killings and prayed for the peaceful repose of the dead and urged the government to bring the perpetrators of these dastardly acts to justice.
The National Chairman of the foremost progressive political party in Nigeria also urged both the National Assembly and State governments to expedite processes for constitutional amendments that would facilitate the decentralization of the country’s security architecture, a critical step towards addressing the prevailing security challenges.
“In these critical times, collaboration and decisive action are imperative to restore peace, security, and prosperity for all citizens,” He said