Presidency Warns Against Forest Prayer Meetings In Kwara, Kogi

The Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement, North Central, has urged residents and religious groups in Kwara and Kogi States to suspend “Ori Oke” prayer gatherings in forests and mountainous areas over rising security concerns.

The office said such locations are increasingly being used as hideouts by bandits and other criminal elements, warning that continued gatherings could expose worshippers to danger.

In a statement issued by the SSA to the President on Community Engagement, North Central, Dr Abiodun Essiet, residents were advised to temporarily halt the meetings until the security situation improves.

“The Office of the SSA to the President on Community Engagement, North Central, has appealed to residents and religious groups in Kwara and Kogi States to temporarily suspend Ori Oke prayer gatherings until the security situation in the affected areas stabilises,” the statement read.

The office stressed that God can be worshipped anywhere, noting that forests and mountains have increasingly become operational bases for criminal groups.

It added that continued use of such locations for large gatherings poses avoidable security risks to worshippers and surrounding communities.

“Citizens were also urged to support and cooperate with security agencies who are working tirelessly to sustain peace, protect lives, and maintain security across communities in the North Central region,” it added.