The Kogi East Elders’ Council (KEEC) has issued a stern warning to youths in the senatorial district to be cautious of an alleged state-sponsored plot to discredit them.
According to a statement signed by Amb. Ali Ocheni, Director of Communications, KEEC, the Kogi State administration is planning to use hired thugs bearing Igala/Bassa names to carry out destructive activities in Lokoja, the state capital, from August 1-10, and blame it on Kogi East youths.
“We have it for a fact that the administration…has decided to hide under the shadow of the publicised nation-wide protest against bad governance…to discredit Kogi leader of East senatorial district,” the statement reads.
The council urged Kogi East youths to stay away from any protests in Lokoja and Kogi State during the specified period and to be vigilant in protecting their lives and properties.
“We find this disgustingly naive and shameful,” Amb. Ocheni said. “As citizens of Nigeria, we have no objection to our citizens venting their spleen in a democratic and civilized manner.”
The council also called on security agencies in Kogi State to investigate the report and bring the perpetrators to book.
In a related statement, Sen. Dr. Ahmadu A. Ali, Chairman of KEEC, condemned the alleged plot, saying, “We will not allow our youths to be used as pawns in a game of political mischief.”
The Kogi East Elders’ Council advised the Kogi State administration to focus on governance rather than engaging in “devious antics.”
