In a bold move to tackle ongoing insecurity, the government of Kogi State has announced a statewide curfew starting at 4 PM daily, effective immediately. The directive, issued by the state’s security council, aims to stem rising incidents of kidnapping, bandit attacks and violent crime that have unsettled many communities across the state.

According to the official statement, all residents are ordered to remain indoors by 4 PM each day until further notice. The curfew covers urban and rural areas, markets, and roads. Only essential workers and emergency services will be exempted. The government said the measure is necessary to restore peace and protect lives after a sharp uptick in reported security breaches.

Why Kogi Ordered the Curfew

In recent weeks, several local government areas in Kogi have recorded violent incidents involving armed groups. Communities have reported kidnapping, robbery and terror attacks, prompting widespread panic among residents. The government says the curfew is part of a larger security crackdown that will include intensive patrols, increased checkpoints and stronger collaboration with local vigilante groups and federal security agencies.

The curfew decision follows a security committee meeting convened by the governor and top state officials. Authorities believe moving curfew time earlier to 4 PM is essential because many of the attacks occur during evening hours, especially when people are returning from markets or traveling between towns. Closing the roads early, they argue, will reduce movement and give security agents a head-start in monitoring suspicious activity.

What Residents and Observers Are Saying

The announcement has been met with mixed reactions. Some residents expressed relief, saying the curfew gives them some hope after weeks of fear. “At least now we can close up early and hope to have safer nights,” said one market vendor who requested anonymity. Many parents say they can now feel a bit safer letting their children return from school.

But there are concerns too. Some workers worry about losing business or income, especially traders, artisans and transporters who rely on evening hours to earn. Taxi drivers and small business owners said the curfew could affect their livelihoods if it lasts long. Others questioned whether the curfew would be enough without improved intelligence and long-term security reforms.

Security experts welcoming the curfew caution that it should be part of a broader strategy. They argue that curfews can help in the short term, but sustainable safety depends on policing reforms, community intelligence, and social interventions that address root causes of crime.

What Happens Next

The Kogi State government has promised to deploy additional security forces, including mobile police, local vigilante units and community watch groups. Intelligence gathering efforts are expected to intensify. The curfew will remain in force until the security situation stabilises. Officials said they will review the measure periodically and decide when it can be relaxed or lifted.

In the meantime, residents are advised to comply fully, stay indoors after 4 PM and report suspicious activities using designated emergency lines. The government emphasised that the curfew is not meant to disrupt daily life permanently but to protect citizens while security agencies restore order.

For now, Kogi’s curfew sends a strong message that the government is prioritising safety and taking decisive action. Whether the measure will bring lasting peace remains to be seen.