Dino Melaye Seeks State of Emergency In Kogi

Following the alleged assassination attempt on his life in Lokoja on Monday, Senator Dino Melaye (Kogi West) has called for the declaration of a state of emergency in the state due to what he described as a breakdown of public order and safety.

This is as the Senate condemned the assassination attempt and urged security agencies to unravel the identities of the persons behind the attack which is the second attempt on Melaye’s life in recent times.

Melaye, who raised a point of order at plenary yesterday again alleged that the attack was orchestrated by the Kogi State Governor, Mr. Yahya Bello.
He cited section 305 (3c) of the 1999 Constitution which allows the president to proclaim a state of emergency “when there is break down of public order and public safety in the federation or in any party thereof of such extent as to require extra-ordinary measure to restore peace and security.

“I will seek the leave of this Senate to bring a proper motion to ask for the declaration of a state of emergency in Kogi State. As I speak to you Kogi State is no longer passable since Yahaya Bello became the governor. Kidnapping is going on a daily basis. Insecurity is on the rise than ever. There has been four jail breaks in Kotorn Karfe prison since he became governor,” Melaye said.

The senator also called for an audit of the arms and ammunition in the government house armoury.
“We cannot continue like that, there is already a state of anarchy,” he said. “This is the second attack of an assassination attempt on my life orchestrated by the Kogi State government, I also put on record, that those attacking me, we have video evidence,” he added.

Presiding, Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu condemned the attack and expressed optimism in the ability of the security agencies to investigate the matter adequately.
Ekweremadu added that it is the responsibility of the government to ensure the safety of lives of citizens.

Source: This Day