Photo: Gen Christopher Musa (retd) Defence Minister
At least two people were killed and several others injured after a clash between soldiers and participants in the Echane Masquerade Festival in Kogi State, residents said on Monday, prompting authorities to suspend the event across Ebiraland.
The violence broke out on Sunday in Ogaminana, headquarters of Adavi Local Government Area, after two soldiers in civilian clothes were allegedly assaulted by masqueraders, witnesses said.
The soldiers later returned with reinforcements and opened fire, residents said, triggering chaos as some youths responded by throwing stones.
One of those killed was a Point of Sale (POS) operator identified as Omeiza, who was reportedly struck by a stray bullet while inside his kiosk. Another resident died after sustaining gunshot wounds, according to witnesses.
Community leaders attempted to calm tensions, but the situation escalated, residents said.
Following the incident, the Kogi State Government suspended the Echane Festival across Ebiraland, citing security concerns.
In a statement, Information Commissioner Kingsley Femi Fanwo said intelligence reports indicated that activities linked to the festival could threaten public peace and lead to a breakdown of law and order in parts of Kogi Central.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo directed security agencies to enforce the suspension and warned that violators would face sanctions, the statement said.
The Kogi State Police Command did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
