The local government councils of Ijumu and Kabba-Bunu have ordered the immediate closure of two Zango Cattle Markets due to growing security concerns in their areas.
The affected markets, situated in Iyara (Ijumu) and Odolu (Kabba-Bunu), were shut down following reports that criminal groups previously displaced from other parts of Kogi State had relocated their activities to these locations.
In separate statements issued on Saturday in Lokoja, the Chairman of Ijumu LGA, Haruna Ibrahim, and his Kabba-Bunu counterpart, Dare Zacchaeus, confirmed the decision.
They noted that Governor Ahmed Ododo directed the closure as part of efforts to eliminate criminal elements linked to kidnapping and banditry.
Ibrahim explained that intelligence reports indicated the market was being used as a hideout for criminals, leading to its indefinite closure.
He assured that security forces had been deployed to ensure compliance and warned that anyone attempting to interfere with the directive would face legal consequences.
Similarly, Zacchaeus cited persistent attacks by herders, bandits, and kidnappers as the reason for shutting down the Odolu Cattle Market. He issued a warning to displaced herders from Zango in Iyara, cautioning them against moving into Kabba-Bunu, as any such attempt would be met with strong resistance and legal action.
He also warned traditional rulers against selling land to unknown herders or individuals, stating that those involved risk removal from their positions and prosecution. Additionally, he directed that anyone intending to sell a house in Kabba-Bunu must obtain approval from the local government and provide the buyer’s full identification details.
He emphasized that violators would be prosecuted for aiding criminal activities.