By Dada Ahmed.
The local government councils of Ijumu and Kabba-Bunu in Kogi State recently ordered the immediate closure of two prominent cattle markets located in Iyara and Odolu respectively, in a bold but telling move to curb insecurity in the two areas.The action, spurred by rising insecurity, underscores the alarming spread of criminal networks in some parts of the state.
The closures follow disturbing intelligence reports that these markets have become operational bases for kidnappers, bandits, and other criminal elements. According to local authorities, the markets evolved into sanctuaries for nefarious activities after similar hotspots, such as the Zango Cattle Markets in Kogi Central, were shut down for the same reason.
The Ijumu Local Government Area Chairman, Alhaji Haruna Ibrahim, and his Kabba-Bunu counterpart, Dare Zacchaeus, confirmed that their actions were directed by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, whose administration has declared a zero-tolerance policy for insecurity. “The safety of our people and those traveling through our lands is non-negotiable,” Ibrahim stated.
The relocation of criminals from one market to another reveals a troubling trend. Experience reveals that while isolated interventions may temporarily displace criminals, they do not dismantle the networks that enable them to perpetrate their heinous crime.
Zacchaeus expressed concern over persistent attacks by herders and kidnappers, noting that Odolu has been a frequent target.
In response, authorities have also issued warnings to displaced herders from Zango Market who might attempt to resettle in Kabba-Bunu.“Any such attempt will be met with stiff resistance and legal actions,” Zacchaeus gives stern warning.
“Any chief or landowner who compromises security by selling land or houses to unidentified individuals will be arrested and prosecuted for aiding and abetting terrorism,” he further warned.
Zacchaeus also announced a new policy requiring council approval before property sales, with detailed biodata of prospective buyers submitted for security clearance.
“Anyone who violates this directive will face prosecution for aiding criminal activities,” he added.
But the crisis goes beyond cattle market. Zacchaeus also raised alarms over the sale of land and property to unknown individuals. Traditional rulers and landowners who violate security protocols now risk dethronement and prosecution. “We cannot allow land transactions to become loopholes for terrorism,” he stressed.
To tighten security further, the Kabba-Bunu council now mandates prior approval and vetting before any property transaction. It mandates prospective buyers to undergo security screening and provide complete biodata before purchase approvals are granted.
While these measures may temporarily stem the tide of crime, experts believe a more strategic and statewide approach is required.Keen watchers of security climate in Kogi state believe that it is not isolated to cattle markets or land sales,but a systemic development that thrives on what has been described as “weak surveillance, poor community policing” among other factors.
The Kogi State Government must consider establishing a more Centralized Security Intelligence Task Force to monitor criminal movement across local governments. Community vigilante groups should also be more trained, equipped, and integrated into formal security systems.
Equally important is the need for public education and community engagement. Locals must be sensitized to identify and report suspicious activity, and traditional institutions must become active partners in security management rather than mere figureheads.
Furthermore, investing in digital surveillance tools such as drones, CCTV networks in critical areas, and mobile communication platforms for rapid reporting could greatly enhance the state’s capacity to preempt threats.
The recent closures in Ijumu and Kabba-Bunu are commendable as immediate responses to security threats. However, for Kogi State to truly reclaim its peace, a more coordinated, intelligence-driven, and people-inclusive strategy is essential. The battle against insecurity must be systemic, sustained, and supported by every stakeholder in the state.
Ahmed publishes The Reporters.
ahmeddada008@gmail.com.
