Kogi State Government reaffirms its commitment to combating insecurity, urging citizens and political actors to avoid fear-mongering and politicising security challenges

[dropcap]K[/dropcap]ogi insecurity is being actively combated by the State Government, which has reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to tackling criminal elements.

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In a statement released to newsmen on Tuesday in Lokoja, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon.

Kingsley Femi Fanwo, appealed to citizens, media stakeholders, and political actors to refrain from spreading fear or politicising the state’s security challenges

The government highlighted its quiet yet effective progress in the fight against criminals, particularly kidnappers, across the state.

“These gains are not coincidental,” the statement read, attributing success to “well-planned strategies and deep institutional engagements aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of every Kogite.”

While extending sympathy to families affected by recent attacks, the government firmly stated that such incidents should not be exploited to disseminate misinformation or cause panic.

“Misinformation and alarmist narratives only embolden criminals and demoralise communities,” the statement stressed, urging “opinion leaders and the media to work with us, not against us.”

The Kogi government also condemned what it termed “the politicisation of insecurity by certain desperate politicians,” warning that such behaviour undermines the collective effort against crime.

“Those who brought medicines whose side effects are worse than the ailments should not raise frivolous alarms when the right medicines are administered,” the statement noted pointedly.

Misinformation and alarmist narratives only embolden criminals and demoralise commu

nitiesAccording to credible intelligence, the recent surge in security threats in parts of Kogi is linked to regional shifts.

Intensified security operations in the Northeast and Northwest have reportedly compelled criminal elements to migrate towards the North Central, including Kogi.

Despite these challenges, the government underscored its proactive measures, including deploying advanced security infrastructure, strengthening intelligence gathering, and fostering community engagement.

“Our duty is not to spread fear but to inspire hope.

And we are not just speaking hope; we are delivering it through action,” the commissioner asserted.

Governor Ahmed Ododo, the statement added, remains fully dedicated to prioritising security without politicising the issue.

“We are taking responsibility, not shifting blame,” Fanwo said, urging politicians to concentrate on performance as a tool for re-election rather than inciting panic, stating that “performers do not fear reelection.”

The government expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the National Security Adviser, service chiefs, and local security outfits like the Vigilante Service and Hunters Group for their unwavering support.

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The statement concluded with a powerful call for unity: “Let us not propagate propaganda for criminals. Let us work together to defeat fear and inspire hope.”