The Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Usman Ododo, has announced the arrest of the suspected perpetrators of last week’s crisis that rocked Bagana in the Omala Local Government Area of the state.
Last week, gunmen invaded the community, resulting in the death of no fewer than 25 people and the destruction of property worth millions.
The governor, while speaking with journalists on Wednesday shortly after the Eid Fitr prayers at the Okene Central praying ground, said that the perpetrators, as well as their sponsors, have been arrested while an investigation is ongoing to ascertain the extent of participation of those arrested.
He lashed out at those criticising the government, describing them as “noisemakers and those without stake as far as governance is concerned.”
“Reacting to noisemakers and those that do not have a stake as far as governance is concerned is not part of the mandate given to me by the good people of Kogi State and Mr President.
“The crisis in Bagana in Omala Local Government did not start today. It has been in existence for over 45 years ago, precisely 1978. We are doing our best to make sure peace is restored within the area.
As I speak to you today, the suspected sponsors have been arrested and investigations are ongoing.
“They are giving us useful information that will lead to the arrest of other suspects. As soon as we are done with that investigation, the report will be made known to the public,” the governor said.
The governor, however, did not disclose the number of suspects who were arrested.
Eyewitnesses told PUNCH Online in Lokoja last Friday that the incident happened on Thursday when the gunmen carried out what was described as a “reprisal” attack and invaded the two communities.
The bandits were said to be in a running battle with the Agatu militia in Benue State.
A local, who lost his wife and children, said that the gunmen attacked them after alleging that the people were complicit with the Agatus against them.
