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Kogi CP deploys enhanced patrols for Ramadan, Lent security

The Commissioner of Police, Kogi State Police Command, CP Naziru Kankarofi, has deployed enhanced patrols to places of worship and other public spaces.

This is as he called on all residents to support ongoing efforts aimed at maintaining peace, security and public order throughout the state during the Ramadan and Lent period.

This was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday in Lokoja by the public relations officer, ASP Saliu Afusat.

The statement reads, “The Commissioner of Police assures the public that the Command has put in place comprehensive security measures across the State, including enhanced visibility patrols, strategic deployments to places of worship and other public spaces, as well as intelligence-led operations to prevent crime and respond swiftly to any security concerns.”

In Christianity, Lent is a solemn 40-day season marked by fasting, self-denial, and repentance, inspired by the period Jesus Christ spent in the wilderness preparing for His crucifixion.

In Islam, Ramadan is a holy month devoted to fasting, increased prayers, and deep spiritual reflection, observed as one of the five pillars of Islam and a time that emphasises complete submission to God.

He reiterates that the Command remains committed to protecting lives and property and ensuring that all residents go about their lawful activities without fear.

Kankarofi urges residents to remain vigilant and security conscious, particularly during early morning and late evening activities.

He advises members of the public to promptly report suspicious persons or movements to the nearest Police Station or through the Command’s emergency numbers: 0703 832 9084, 0815 219 9999.

He further cautions against reckless driving, unlawful gatherings, and any conduct capable of disturbing public peace and order.

The CP also calls on parents, guardians, religious leaders, traditional rulers, youth groups and community stakeholders to use the period to promote peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and respect for the rule of law.

He emphasised that security is a shared responsibility and encourages sustained cooperation with the Police and other security agencies through timely and credible information sharing.

“The Commissioner reassures the good people of Kogi State that under his leadership, the Command will continue to uphold professionalism, discipline and respect for human rights while strengthening strategies to address emerging security challenges.

He appreciates the continued support of the Government and people of Kogi State and urges all residents to remain law-abiding to ensure a peaceful and secure Ramadan period for everyone.” The PPRO added. (Punch)

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Gov Mbah participates in Holy Mass ushering Lenten season, urges unity

The Governor of Enugu State, Peter N Mbah on Wednesday morning joined the Christian faithful at the Government House Chapel, Enugu for the Holy Mass marking Ash Wednesday, ushering Christians into the sacred season of Lent. In his message posted on his X page @PNMbah, he wished the faithful spirit-filled Lenten season. He stressed:

“Ash Wednesday calls us to prayer, fasting, humility, and reflection — a reminder that we are from dust and to dust we shall return. It is a time to realign our hearts with love, service, and compassion.

“Significantly, this year’s Lent coincides with the beginning of Ramadan for our Muslim brothers and sisters, a powerful convergence that reminds us that while our paths of worship may differ, our shared values of faith, sacrifice, and devotion to God unite us.

“May this sacred season renew our commitment to unity, peace, and service to one another. I wish all Christians and Muslims a spiritually enriching Lenten and Ramadan season.

“As we begin this Lenten journey, may we find grace in the quiet moments, strength in sincere reflection, and renewal in the gentle spaces where God meets us most tenderly. May this season refine us, soften our hearts, and draw us closer to His purpose for our lives.

“May the ashes remind us not only of our frailty, but of the enduring mercy that renews us daily.

“Wishing all Christian faithful a meaningful and grace-filled Lent.” (PremiumTimes)

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Sultan confirms sighting of Moon, says Ramadan begins Wednesday

The Sultan of Sokoto, Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has declared Wednesday, February 18, 2026, the first day of the Holy Month of Ramadan 1447AH.

He declared that the crescent moon was sighted in almost every part of the country earlier on Tuesday, which is the 29th day of the Month of Shaban and thereby signifies Wednesday as the first day of Ramadan 1447.

Sultan Abubakar, in a press statement made available to Channels Television in Sokoto and signed by the Chairman of the advisory committee on religious affairs, Sambo Junaid, however, called on the entire Muslim communities in the country to start fasting on Wednesday in accordance with the teachings of Islam.

He said the council got information of the moon sighting from many Islamic leaders cut across the country, which he said signified the start of Ramadan fast.

“The Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, in conjunction with the National Moonsighting Committee, received reports from various moonsighting committees across the country confirming the sighting of the new moon of Ramadan 1447AH, on Tuesday, 17th February, 2026, which is the 29th day of Sha’aban 1447AH.

“His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto and President General, Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has accepted the reports and accordingly declared Wednesday, 18th February, 2026 as the first day of Ramadan 1447AH,” the statement partly read.

He urged Muslims to use this month of Ramadan to pray against the insecurity ravaging some parts of the country.

He also called on Muslims across the country to use the month of Ramadan to continue to pray for the leaders of the country and to curb the security challenges in the country. (Channels)