No drums, no dance this year, Kogi has hit pause on the famous Echane Festival, and security agencies are now on strict watch.

Here's the gist, as reported by cbinewstv:

The Kogi State Government has suspended the Echane Festival in Ebiraland with immediate effect, citing serious security concerns.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, the government said credible intelligence reports suggest activities linked to the festival could threaten public peace and safety in parts of Kogi Central Senatorial District.

Now, the government was quick to add that it recognises the cultural importance of the festival and how much it means to preserving Ebira heritage. But, as the statement put it, protecting lives and property remains its foremost responsibility.

Governor Usman Ododo, who approved the suspension, was blunt in his directive:

“The Governor has directed that the Echane Festival be suspended with immediate effect in view of security reports and the need to preserve law and order.”

All security agencies in the state have been ordered to enforce the ban strictly. Anyone caught organising, participating in, or promoting anything connected to the suspended festival has been warned they will face the full weight of the law.

The administration is also appealing to traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, and residents in the affected communities to cooperate with security operatives and help keep the peace.

Governor Ododo insists his government will keep taking proactive steps to sustain the stability Kogi is known for, and that security will always come first when it comes to public gatherings.

Source: cbinewstv

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