Ukomu Igala Raises Alarm Over Tony-Tony’s Detention, Demands Probe Into Kogi East Mining Activities

By BigNews Correspondent
August 20, 2026

The Ukomu Igala Organization (UIO) Worldwide has called for an urgent investigation into the alleged assault and continued detention of Mallam Abdulwahab Tijani, popularly known as Tony-Tony, while demanding stronger regulation of mining activities across Kogi East.

The organisation, in a statement issued on Thursday, said it had formally petitioned the Inspector-General of Police and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) over what it described as disturbing reports surrounding Tony-Tony’s arrest and detention at the Koton-Karfi Correctional Facility.

According to the UIO, reports indicated that Tony-Tony allegedly sustained injuries to his head and face during his arrest.

The organisation called on security authorities to independently establish the circumstances surrounding the arrest, ascertain his current physical condition and ensure that he receives necessary medical attention.

It also demanded that anyone found culpable of violating his rights should be held accountable in accordance with the law.

Mining: UIO Demands Protection for Host Communities

Turning to the wider issue of mining in Kogi East, the UIO said it had engaged the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development over concerns raised by communities affected by mining operations.

The organisation called for an inclusive dialogue involving government agencies, mining operators, host communities and other stakeholders to address the consequences of mining activities in the region.

It identified environmental degradation, public safety, damaged roads, community development and responsible mining practices among the issues requiring urgent attention.

UIO maintained that the exploitation of mineral resources in Kogi East should benefit both the Federal Government and the communities where the resources are located.

The group argued that host communities should not be left with degraded environments, unsafe mining sites, damaged infrastructure or diminished livelihoods after mineral resources have been extracted.

It consequently called for stricter enforcement of environmental, safety and community-development standards by relevant authorities.

‘Protect Our People, Uphold Due Process’

The organisation appealed to security and government authorities to protect citizens, enforce the law and ensure that allegations are investigated transparently.

It also urged the Igala people in Nigeria and the diaspora to remain calm and avoid actions that could undermine peace while the organisation pursues the issues through lawful and constitutional channels.

The UIO said it would continue to advocate for the protection of communities and responsible exploitation of natural resources, stressing that the development of Kogi East must translate into tangible benefits for its people.

The statement was signed by Maj. Gen. James A. Ataguba (rtd), fdc, Ph.D, National Leader of the Ukomu Igala Organization Worldwide.

The organisation reaffirmed its slogan: “We Stand for Justice, Peace, Unity & Progress.”