The governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party in Kogi State, Muri Ajaka, on Saturday, condemned the recent killings in some communities in the Omala Local Government Area of the state.
It was reported that no fewer than 19 people were killed while yet to be ascertained the number of houses that were razed during the attacks.
Eyewitnesses said on Friday that the incident happened on Thursday when the gunmen mobilised in what he described as a “reprisal” and invaded the two communities inflicting maximum damages.
In a statement issued in Abuja, Ajaka called on President Bola Tinubu to wade into the worsening security situation in the state by declaring a state of emergency to end the ‘incessant senseless killings.’
He said, “I condemn in strong terms the reoccurring maiming and killing of innocent Kogites in Bagana, Otutubatu, Iyade, Agbenema, Agojeju-Odo and other affected communities in Omala Local Government Area of Kogi State.
“The life of every Kogite is sacred and important. It is the responsibility of the state government to protect the masses against internal and external aggression. It is high time the state government sat up to its primary responsibility of securing the Kogi state.
“I urge the current occupants of Lugard House to put an end to the crises and heightened insecurity in Kogi State by mobilising all the resources needed to solve the present conflict and to prevent future occurrences or step aside. The security apparatus of the state should be deployed to maintain order and stability in the affected areas immediately.
“I call on President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government to intervene in the matter since the state government has failed the people. I am certain that the President will not allow his government to be overrun by insecurity in any part of the country and therefore, Kogi State should not be allowed to turn into a killing field.
“To this end, Mr President should declare a state of emergency in Kogi State because over 35 people were brutally killed and the state government is doing absolutely nothing about it.
“I am also appealing to the Inspector General of Police, all the service chiefs, and the National Security Adviser to swiftly intervene and thoroughly investigate the cause of the persistent crisis.
“I seek humanitarian assistance for those displaced by the conflict. I share in the grief of the families of those who lost their lives in the unfortunate incident and call on the people to be steadfast and cooperate with the men of our security forces for the restoration of peace.”