Kogi Govt Warns Churches Over Security Breaches as Troops Destroy Terrorist Camp

By Zainab Uzomah|Abuja

The Kogi State Government has warned churches to comply with a ban on late-night services and worship in isolated locations, citing intelligence about a planned attack by armed groups. Officials say bandits had discussed targeting a church in Ijumu Local Government Area, believing they could kidnap worshippers for ransom.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, said security agencies had already taken steps to prevent the attack but stressed that some churches were still ignoring safety directives. He reminded religious institutions that no service should extend beyond 4pm and that those in vulnerable areas must relocate or seek adequate security cover. Any breach, he said, would attract sanctions.

Fanwo emphasised that the measures were not an attack on religious practice but a necessary response to ongoing security threats. He also directed security personnel to stop pastors from organising night services, saying the state’s priority is to prevent crime rather than respond after lives are endangered.

Meanwhile, troops of the Nigerian Army have overrun a major terrorist camp in the state, recovering more than 2,000 rounds of ammunition and a box of high-velocity grenades. The operation, led by Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, targeted a base linked to wanted kingpins Kachalla Ibrahim and Shu’aibu.

Soldiers destroyed the camp after the sweep, a move officials say will prevent its reuse. Kogi’s Security Adviser, Jerry Omodara, praised the military’s efforts, while the government reiterated its commitment to intensifying both offensive and preventive security measures under Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.