…..“Wait Till Daytime. Follow Due Process” — Governor Charges Security Agents, Monarchs
Emmanuel Ikpeama
Lokoja ,Kogi— Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has banned night arrests across Kogi State and urged traditional rulers to lead efforts for peaceful, violence-free elections.
The directive was issued on Monday during an audience with first-class chiefs at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, Lokoja. 
Governor Ododo warned security operatives to stop invading homes under the cover of darkness.
“No arrest should be made in the night. If you have any case against anybody, wait till daytime, follow due process, invite the person lawfully,” he declared.
“We won’t allow our people to be harassed, intimidated or picked up like criminals in the middle of the night.”
He described the ban as necessary to protect citizens’ dignity and ensure policing remains civil and humane. He also charged royal fathers to report any officer who violates the order.
The Governor said the new security threat comes from within communities.
“Our problem now is not foreigners. It’s our own brothers and sisters supplying food, logistics and information to criminals in the bush,” he said.
He specifically indicted some wood-cutters and directed monarchs to summon their associations.
“If you’re caught aiding criminals, we won’t spare you, even if you’re my brother,” he warned.
Ododo added that blocking supply routes and shutting down compromised markets is already “making them feel the heat.”
With political activities intensifying, the Governor appealed to traditional rulers to preach peace and neutrality.
“We cannot be killing ourselves to get to a position. Campaign should be issue-based, not about religion or ethnicity. We’re all Kogites,” he said.
He urged them to work with community leaders, youths and stakeholders to ensure the forthcoming elections are free of thuggery and intimidation.
Governor Ododo also lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for support on infrastructure and security, citing the ongoing reconstruction of the Abuja-Lokoja-Okene-Benin highway and prompt release of allocations.
He thanked the monarchs for their sacrifices, noting that Kogi’s peace has been sustained by their prayers and community leadership.
