The Kogi State Government has ordered the temporary closure of selected markets and motor parks across Kogi West Senatorial District to support intensified security operations targeting terrorists, bandits, and criminal networks in the state.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the directive, announced on Sunday, February 8, 2026, by the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, is part of a coordinated effort with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and other security agencies to disrupt criminal logistics and restrict access to food and supplies for bandits.
The closure covers key communities in seven Local Government Areas, including Lokoja, Kabba-Bunu, Yagba West, Yagba East, Kogi, Mopamuro, and Ijumu. In Lokoja, markets and motor parks such as Oshokoshoko Market, Jakura, Ogbagbon, Agbaja, Atsawa, and Obajana are affected. In Kabba-Bunu, the shutdown includes Ike Bunu, Aba Marian (Isado), Ofere, and Aiyede.
Mediaplusng.com reports that the operation has already yielded results, with 16 kidnap victims rescued and a bandits’ camp overrun. Security officials confirmed that the arrests and rescues are part of a strategic approach based on intelligence-driven raids to restore peace and protect residents.
In Yagba West, markets and motor parks in Okoloke, Isanlu Esa, Okunran, Ogbe, Ejiba, and Igbaruku are closed, while Yagba East sees Irunda Ile, Iyeh Ilotin, Gada, Odogbe, and Ilafin under temporary lockdown. Kogi Local Government Area includes the Rice Market at Adingere, Koton Karfe, Okpareke, Girinya, the Okro Market at Opanda, and the Perishable Market at Edeha. Mopamuro and Ijumu LGAs also have multiple affected markets and parks.
The State Government emphasizes that the closure is temporary and will be lifted immediately after the successful conclusion of the security operations. Residents, traders, and transport operators are urged to comply fully to ensure the effectiveness of the exercise and support the state’s efforts to secure lives and property.
Authorities stress that public cooperation is critical and encourage citizens to report suspicious activities to local security agencies to sustain peace in the affected communities. The operation marks a decisive step in Kogi State’s commitment to fighting banditry and restoring safety for all residents.
