Panic in Obajana as Security Forces, Bandits Exchange Fire
Panic in Obajana as Security Forces, Bandits Exchange Fire
Residents of Obajana in Kogi State were thrown into panic on Sunday night after Nigerian Army personnel reportedly exchanged gunfire with suspected armed criminals near the Dangote Cement Plant.
A local source confirmed that the confrontation occurred close to the Line 3 gate of the facility, describing the shooting as intense and prolonged.
Videos circulating on social media captured moments of the incident, though official details of casualties or arrests had yet to be released at the time of reporting.
The clash comes amid growing security concerns in Kogi State and other parts of Nigeria’s north-central region, where armed groups have increasingly targeted rural communities, worship centres and security operatives. In a related development, security agencies have intensified coordinated operations across forested areas of Kogi, leading to the disruption of criminal networks.
Police authorities stated that aerial surveillance and precision strikes have supported ground forces, urging the public to report individuals seen with suspicious injuries or behaviour.
Meanwhile, federal authorities say sustained military and police offensives against armed groups have recorded significant successes nationwide since the current administration assumed office.
The government recently approved the formation of a specialized forest protection force to curb criminal activity, including kidnapping and illegal exploitation of forest reserves.
While security experts have welcomed the initiative, some have raised questions about its long-term effectiveness.
