Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to eliminate criminal activities across the state, particularly in Yagba West Local Government Area, following the incessant kidnappings and killings.
Governor Ododo made the declaration on Monday during his visit to Joint Task Force Base at Isanlu-Esa, a community that has been at the center of violent attacks along Okoloke and Isanlu-Esa routes in Yagba west.
During the visit, the Commander of the Nigerian Army in charge of the JTF operation, Brigadier General Bello Sidi, commended the governor’s unwavering support for security agencies through the provision of logistics and operational assistance. He noted that the collaboration between the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, DSS, and special forces from the office of the NSA has greatly enhanced the success of security operations in the area.
Brig. Gen. Sidi also lauded the contribution of the Hybrid Force from the Office of the National Security Adviser, describing their role as “invaluable” in stabilizing the area.
In his address, the traditional ruler of Isanlu-Esa, His Royal Highness Oba Olufemi Ogunremi Theophilus, appreciated Governor Ododo for personally visiting the community. The monarch described the governor’s presence as a mark of “responsive and compassionate leadership” and appealed for a continued security presence until total peace is restored.
He further called on the Federal Government to rehabilitate the road leading to the community to facilitate smooth movement and enhance rapid response by security personnel.
Governor Ododo, in his remarks, commended the gallantry efforts of the security operatives and expressed sympathy to the families who lost their loved ones during the attacks.
I share in the grief of families who have lost loved ones to these senseless attacks. My administration will not relent until we make criminality a thing of the past in this local government and across the state,” the governor said.
He cautioned traditional rulers against indiscriminate allocation of land to unknown individuals and ordered that anyone with mining licenses must be properly profiled to prevent infiltration by criminal groups.
Governor Ododo also paid tribute to fallen security operatives who died in active service, assuring their families that their sacrifices would never be forgotten.
He reaffirmed his administration’s collaboration with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Security Adviser in ensuring the total restoration of peace and security in Kogi State.
The governor was accompanied by top government officials and heads of various security agencies.