According to the state government, the assault took place at 4 p.m., and the perpetrators were clad in “military attire
FILE PHOTO of Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello
Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, found himself in a harrowing situation on Sunday as he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt just a few kilometers away from the Nigerian capital, Abuja. The incident occurred while he was en route to an official engagement from Lokoja, the capital of Kogi State. This alarming episode was disclosed in an official statement issued by the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Fanwo. The statement was subsequently made available to the press in Lokoja.
According to the statement, the attack unfolded at approximately 4 p.m., and the assailants involved in this shocking incident were reported to be wearing “military uniforms.” The assailants, in a calculated move, ambushed the governor’s convoy and commenced a hail of gunfire, indiscriminately targeting Governor Bello’s vehicle as well as other vehicles in his convoy.
Fortunately, the situation did not escalate further due to the swift response and intervention of security personnel assigned to the governor. They managed to thwart the assailants’ nefarious plans, preventing a potentially catastrophic event from unfolding. It’s worth noting that the attack unfolded at three different points, with the last stand occurring around Kwali in the Federal Capital Territory.
Kingsley Fanwo, the Commissioner for Information and Communication, emphasized that these unprovoked attacks have been thoroughly documented and reported to both state and national security agencies. This prompt reporting aims to ensure that comprehensive investigations are conducted to prevent any potential recurrence of such incidents.
Fanwo also pointed out that these attacks appear to be politically motivated, driven by individuals intent on tarnishing the peace and stability Kogi State has enjoyed over the past eight years. With the gubernatorial election slated for November 11, 2023, there are concerns that certain elements may be working to create an atmosphere of insecurity in the state for political gain. The statement made it clear that the state government is committed to protecting its citizens from security threats orchestrated by desperate politicians who may be behind acts of violence and terrorism.
In light of these unsettling events, the statement issued a call to action to the citizens of Kogi State. It urged them to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities within their communities to the relevant security agencies. It further assured the people of Kogi that the hard-earned peace and stability the state has enjoyed over the past eight years will not be sacrificed on the altar of violent politics. The government remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of its citizens as it works to maintain a peaceful and harmonious environment within the state.
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