Ahmed Ododo vows to defeat criminals in Kogi, pledging total war on insecurity, supporting security agencies, and warning traditional rulers against illegal land use

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has vowed to defeat criminals and end insecurity threatening peace and development across the state.

Also read: Kogi fights insecurity, warns against sabotage

Ododo made the pledge during a visit to Isanlu-Esa in Yagba West Local Government Area on Monday, following recent cases of kidnapping and killings along Okunran, Okoloke, and Isanlu-Esa communities that have heightened fear in the region.

Speaking during the visit, Ododo said his administration is resolutely committed to stamping out crime and restoring peace.

“Your synergy has made your assignment easier, and I am always ready to provide all necessary support to triumph over criminality.

I assure the people of this community that I share in your pains, and I am determined to make criminality a thing of the past in this local government,” he said.

He commended the combined efforts of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, DSS, and special forces in tackling insecurity in the area, describing their collaboration as key to achieving lasting peace.

The governor, who was received by Brig. Gen. K. U. Sidi, Commander of the Nigerian Army in charge of the operation, also paid tribute to fallen officers, assuring their families that their sacrifices would not be forgotten.

Ododo cautioned traditional rulers against indiscriminate land allocations, warning that all individuals or companies with mining licences must now be properly profiled by both the government and security agencies to prevent infiltration by criminal elements.

He reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s support for peace and stability in Kogi and across Nigeria, praising the National Security Adviser and Security Chiefs for implementing the President’s security agenda effectively.

In response, Brig. Gen. Sidi thanked the governor for his consistent support through logistics and coordination, noting that it has strengthened the security architecture in the region.

Also speaking, Oba Olufemi Theophilus, the traditional ruler of Isanlu-Esa, described Ododo’s visit as a sign of responsible leadership and urged the Federal Government to repair the roads leading to the community to aid security operations.

Also read: Kogi fights insecurity, warns against sabotage

The royal father further appealed to security forces to maintain their presence in Yagba West until all criminal activities are completely eliminated.