The Kogi State Government has announced a series of stringent security measures aimed at cutting off supply routes used by bandits operating in the Bunu District of Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area.
The directives, which take immediate effect, include a ban on commercial motorcycle (Okada) operations in designated hinterland communities, closure of markets, prohibition of fuel sales in jerrycans, and a statewide ban on movement on state roads after 7:00 p.m.
The government said the measures became necessary following a recent terrorist attack on Iluke community, which was successfully repelled by a joint security operation.
According to authorities, several attackers were killed while others sustained injuries and are believed to be trapped in surrounding forests as security forces continue clearance operations.
In a statement obtained by The News Chronicle on Saturday night, the government explained that the restrictions are intended to deny criminals access to essential supplies such as food, water, medicine and fuel.
Authorities noted that intelligence reports had identified motorcycle operators as a major channel through which logistics are transported to bandits hiding in forest areas. Some criminal elements were also said to be using motorcycles to conduct surveillance ahead of attacks.
Consequently, motorcycle operations have been banned along several routes within the Bunu axis, including the corridors linking Idoyi Bunu, Illah Bunu, Iluke Bunu, Kiri, Odai Bunu, Igbo Bunu, Ilogun Bunu, Olle Bunu, Ayede Bunu, Oke-Ofin Bunu and Edumo Bunu, among others.
The government warned that any rider found transporting passengers or supplies along the affected routes would be arrested and prosecuted under the provisions of the Kogi State Anti-Terrorism Law.
The Motorcycle Operators Association of Nigeria (MOAN) has been directed to immediately sensitize its members on the new directive, which took effect on Saturday, June 13, 2026.
In addition, all markets located along the affected corridors have been shut indefinitely, while mobile medicine vendors and distributors have been ordered to suspend the transportation and sale of drugs on motorcycles in the area.
The sale of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and Automotive Gas Oil (Diesel) in jerrycans has also been banned throughout Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area.
To further strengthen security, the state government announced a statewide ban on night travel, directing that all movement on state-owned roads must cease by 7:00 p.m. daily until further notice. Violators, it warned, would be arrested and prosecuted.
The government disclosed that it possesses credible intelligence on individuals collaborating with criminal elements and assured residents that necessary actions are being taken against such persons in accordance with the law.
While acknowledging the inconvenience the restrictions may cause, the government emphasized that protecting lives and restoring lasting peace remain its top priorities.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has directed security agencies to ensure strict enforcement of the measures and warned that anyone found aiding, supplying, harbouring or collaborating with terrorists would be treated as an accomplice and prosecuted accordingly.
