KONGONET Expresses Concern over Insecurity and Economic Hardship in Kogi State

The Kogi NGOs Network (KONGONET) has expressed concern over the growing insecurity and economic hardship in Kogi State during its first quarter 2024 press briefing.

The association highlighted the sharp rise in crimes and criminal activities across the state, including bank robberies, kidnapping, and robbery incidents.

KONGONET Chairperson Idris Ozovehe Muraina acknowledged the efforts of the security forces in addressing the situation but emphasized the need for a significant improvement in the state’s security architecture.

The group called on Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to urgently intervene and take decisive action to combat the recent upsurge in crimes and criminal activities in the state.

In addition to the security concerns, KONGONET expressed worries about the persistent increase in food prices across Kogi State.

The effects of fuel subsidy removal and the lack of a comprehensive strategic mitigation plan from the state government have exacerbated the situation, with Kogi State retaining the title of the most expensive state in Nigeria to live in due to skyrocketing food inflation.

The group urged the state government to unveil a detailed plan aimed at curbing the current economic hardship and called for a special palliative package for senior citizens through the operationalization of the agency for social security and protection of older citizens in Kogi State.

KONGONET also criticized the government for not conducting local government elections, as required by the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended.

The association called on the Kogi State House of Assembly to reconsider its decision to allow the Executive to appoint local government caretaker committee chairmen without following constitutional provisions.

As the apex Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) Network in the state, KONGONET remains committed to ensuring the well-being, lives, and property of Kogi State citizens are protected, and it continues to pursue this goal with vigor.