By Sunday Ameh
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has directed the immediate closure of unauthorised trailer parks at Zariagi in Lokoja and Osara in Adavi Local Government Areas for one month.
Ododo gave the order on Tuesday during an event in Lokoja, citing credible intelligence reports that the illegal parks had become hideouts for criminals masquerading as truck drivers.
He said the measure was necessary to safeguard lives and property across the state, stressing that his administration would not compromise on security.
“The importance of the well-being and safety of residents of the state cannot be overemphasised,” Ododo said.
He granted operators a one-month grace period to vacate the areas and warned against parking at unauthorised locations, particularly during restricted hours.
The governor also directed security agencies to enforce the order to prevent criminals from exploiting the parks as safe havens.
“Together, we will build a Kogi where good health is a right, not a privilege; where security is guaranteed; and where every resident has a fair chance to live, work, and prosper,” he added.
PUNCH Online reports that the directive follows rising insecurity in parts of Kogi. Earlier this month, three police officers and two vigilante operatives were killed in Egbe, Yagba West Local Government Area, when gunmen attacked a checkpoint.
The incident heightened concerns over the safety of security personnel and the vulnerability of rural communities.
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