Residents across the Kogi East Senatorial District in Kogi State have raised serious security concerns over the growing presence of unfamiliar and reportedly armed groups in their communities.
Multiple local councils—including Ofu Local Government Area, Dekina Local Government Area, Idah Local Government Area, and Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area—have recorded unusual movements of strangers settling in forests and rural areas.
In Igala-Ogba district, particularly Alloma in Ofu LGA, residents reported the arrival of suspected herders who have taken up residence in forested areas between Okula Alloma and Ewune, sparking tensions with farmers over land use and access to water sources.
Similar patterns have been observed in Ofakaga, Ugwolawo district, where locals say some of the newcomers neither own cattle nor live with families—raising suspicions about their intentions.
Communities in Dekina LGA—such as Egume, Abejukolo Egume, Ochaja, Ukwaja, and Ogbulu have also reported the establishment of new settlements by unidentified groups arriving in large numbers. Comparable movements have been noted in forests around Idah and the Odolu axis.
The Kogi East Neighbourhood Watch (KENW) confirmed receiving distress calls from affected communities, warning that the situation poses a significant threat to lives and livelihoods.
According to the group, many residents are now afraid to visit their farms at the peak of the farming season due to the presence of armed individuals.
The intentions of the invaders are unknown, especially as they are bearing arms. The situation is frightening and alarming,” KENW stated.
The group has called on the Kogi State Government, law enforcement authorities, and traditional institutions to urgently intervene, assess the situation, and identify those involved.
It also appealed to Senator Isah Jibrin Echocho to take steps to ensure the safety of constituents.
The rising tension comes amid recent violent incidents. A female traditional ruler, the Iye Ebule of Igo Ward in Ofu LGA, was reportedly abducted by gunmen in a late-night attack.
On the same day, a young farmer travelling between Avrugo and Odolu was ambushed and killed, with eyewitnesses stating he was attacked using machetes.
Residents insist the threats are real and escalating, urging swift action to prevent further deterioration of security in the region.
