At least two residents lost their lives and several others sustained injuries following a violent clash between soldiers and participants of the Echane Masquerade Festival in Ogaminana, Adavi Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The incident, which occurred on Sunday, has sparked concerns across the state and led the Kogi State Government to suspend the annual cultural festival throughout Ebiraland.
According to eyewitness accounts, the crisis began when two soldiers, reportedly dressed in civilian attire, were allegedly attacked by some masqueraders participating in the festival procession. The soldiers were said to have left the scene and later returned with additional military personnel, resulting in a confrontation that quickly escalated.
Residents claimed that gunshots were fired during the ensuing clash, causing panic as people fled for safety. Some members of the community were also reported to have responded by throwing stones at the soldiers.
Among those killed was a Point-of-Sale (POS) operator identified as Omeiza, who was reportedly inside his kiosk when he was struck by a stray bullet. He was later confirmed dead.
Another victim was said to have been sitting inside his residence when he sustained gunshot wounds. Despite efforts to save him, he reportedly died after being rushed to a hospital.
Some witnesses suggested that the incident may have involved off-duty soldiers who had returned home to participate in the festival and reacted after learning that fellow soldiers had allegedly been assaulted by masqueraders in the Inorere area of Ogaminana.
Community leaders, including members of the Adavi Peace Committee and local cultural organizations, reportedly attempted to mediate and restore calm, but their efforts were unsuccessful.
Sources further alleged that the soldiers involved sought reinforcement from their operational base in Okene. Upon arrival, the security personnel allegedly opened fire, leading to casualties among innocent bystanders and injuries to several others.
Residents have called on the state government and relevant security agencies to launch a comprehensive investigation into the incident, ensure accountability, and prevent a recurrence of such violence.
Efforts to obtain an official response from the Kogi State Police Command were unsuccessful, as calls and messages sent to the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Afusat Oyiza Saliu, were not returned at the time of filing this report.
In response to the unrest, the Kogi State Government announced the immediate suspension of the Echane Festival across Ebiraland.
The decision was disclosed in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, who said security intelligence indicated that activities associated with the festival could pose a threat to public safety and trigger further disturbances in parts of Kogi Central.
While recognizing the cultural significance of the festival in preserving the heritage of the Ebira people, the government stressed that the protection of lives and property remains paramount.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo subsequently directed the immediate halt of all festival-related activities and instructed security agencies to enforce compliance throughout the affected communities.
The government also warned that individuals or groups who organize, participate in, or promote activities connected to the suspended festival would face sanctions in accordance with the law.
It further urged traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, and residents to cooperate with security agencies in maintaining peace and preventing further breakdown of law and order.
The state government reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding citizens and preserving the peace and stability of Kogi State.
