Two residents killed as security operatives, masquerades clash in Kogi

At least two persons were reportedly killed following a violent clash between security operatives and masquerades during the Echane Festival in Uhucheba, Ogaminana, within Adavi Local Government Area of Kogi State.

Sources in the community said the incident began on Sunday when some security personnel were allegedly attacked by masquerades at Inorere, Ogaminana, during festival celebrations.

The alleged assault reportedly prompted a response from the affected operatives, who mobilised reinforcements and stormed the community. Witnesses claimed that gunshots were fired during the operation, leading to panic among residents.

Efforts by the Adavi Peace Committee and the local cultural union to resolve the situation and restore calm were said to have been unsuccessful.

A resident, identified simply as Lawal, said the confrontation was triggered by reports that a soldier had been beaten by masquerades.

“It was alleged that masquerades assaulted a soldier in the community. The information quickly spread among other security personnel, leading to their intervention,” he said.

According to him, the ensuing gunfire claimed the lives of two residents who were not involved in the dispute.

“One young man identified as Omeiza was struck by a stray bullet and was confirmed dead on arrival at the hospital. He was a well-known POS operator in the Uhucheba community,” Lawal said.

He added that another resident was reportedly hit by a stray bullet while inside his compound and later died from the injury.

Following the incident, the Kogi State Government announced the immediate suspension of the Echane Festival across Ebiraland.

In a statement, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, said the decision was based on credible intelligence suggesting that activities associated with the festival could pose threats to public peace and security in parts of Kogi Central.

While acknowledging the cultural importance of traditional festivals, Fanwo stressed that the protection of lives and property remained the government’s foremost responsibility.

He disclosed that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo had ordered the immediate suspension of the festival in the interest of public safety and peace.

The governor also directed security agencies in the state to enforce the directive, warning that individuals or groups found organising or participating in activities linked to the suspended festival would face legal consequences.

The state government further appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups and residents to cooperate with security agencies in maintaining peace and stability across the state.

As of the time of filing this report, the spokesperson of the Kogi State Police Command, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, had not responded to calls or text messages seeking comments on the incident.