A civil society organisation, the Conscience for Human Rights and Conflict Resolution (CHRCR), has urged the Kogi State Government to urgently review the prolonged closure of markets and motor parks across Kogi West Senatorial District, warning of mounting economic hardship on rural communities.
The appeal was made by the Executive Director of CHRCR, Idris Miliki Abdul, who acknowledged that the closures were initially introduced as preventive security measures but stressed the need for a balanced approach that protects both safety and livelihoods.
Miliki Abdul noted that while government actions are often guided by intelligence from security agencies, the continued shutdown of key economic centres is taking a toll on local populations, particularly those dependent on agriculture and small-scale trading.
According to him, the closures—though proactive—have disrupted daily commercial activities in rural areas where markets and motor parks serve as critical hubs for the movement of goods and people.
“One of the greatest challenges facing societies today is the rise in violent extremism and insecurity, often driven by non-state actors,” he said. “While these threats justify preventive actions, such measures must also take into account their impact on the welfare of citizens.”
He referenced the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which places the responsibility of ensuring the welfare and security of citizens squarely on government, noting that policies must reflect a careful balance between both obligations.
Miliki Abdul expressed concern that the prolonged closure of the facilities is already affecting economic productivity in affected communities, particularly as the rainy season approaches—a critical period for farming activities.
He explained that many of the affected markets are located in agrarian communities where farmers rely heavily on periodic trading days to sell produce and sustain their livelihoods.
“The continued closure of these economic centres risks undermining agricultural output, reducing incomes, and deepening hardship among already vulnerable populations,” he said.
The CHRCR boss therefore called on the Kogi State Government to, as a matter of urgency, reassess the policy and consider reopening the markets and motor parks under enhanced security arrangements.
He emphasised that restoring these facilities would not only revive economic activities but also strengthen community resilience and support rural development.
Miliki Abdul further urged authorities to adopt a strategic approach that combines security enforcement with economic sustainability, ensuring that measures taken to address insecurity do not inadvertently worsen living conditions for citizens.
The call comes amid growing concerns from residents and stakeholders in Kogi West over the socio-economic impact of the closures, with many appealing for immediate government intervention.
Observers say the situation highlights the broader challenge of balancing security imperatives with economic realities in Nigeria’s sub-national governance framework.
CHRCR demand reopening of Kogi West markets, motor parks amid hardship
