By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh.
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has announced sweeping new security measures, declaring that the state “will not bow to criminal intimidation,” as top traditional rulers, security chiefs, and community leaders convened on Thursday at the Kogi State Peace and Security Council Meeting in Lokoja.
Describing the meeting as one of the most strategic security engagements in recent years, Governor Ododo set a firm tone, unveiling an action-driven plan aimed at sealing security gaps and strengthening community resilience.
The gathering featured key stakeholders, including His Royal Majesty, Dr. Ahmed Tijani Muhammed Anaje, the Ohinoyi of Ebira, who delivered a strong message of unity, vigilance, and collective responsibility.
Governor Ododo outlined a comprehensive security strategy featuring enhanced intelligence and surveillance, improved access to remote areas, and strengthened logistics for rapid-response teams. He particularly highlighted vulnerabilities in mining zones, calling them “potential magnets for criminal groups if left unregulated.”
As part of the new directives, the Governor ordered a full profiling of all mining operations in the state—covering owners, locations, workers, outputs, and existing security arrangements. Local Government Chairmen were given one week to submit updated lists of mining sites and operators.
To reinforce mobility for security agencies, Ododo mandated mining and high-value companies to contribute two Hilux vehicles each to the State Security Trust Fund within three months. He further called for intensified joint operations among the military, police, and paramilitary agencies, especially around forests, schools, worship centres, and mining corridors.
On holiday travel and road safety, Governor Ododo commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ongoing federal road projects and directed state security agencies to support the Federal Road Safety Corps from December 10, 2025, to January 15, 2026. He also charged Local Government Chairmen to hold regular security meetings, strengthen vigilante groups, and fast-track mining data collation.
Traditional and religious leaders were assigned expanded roles in the new security framework. Traditional rulers are expected to monitor land use and track new entrants into their communities, while religious leaders were urged to promote peace and temporarily suspend night activities in worship centres.
Reiterating his zero-tolerance stance on crime, the Governor warned that any building found to be harbouring criminals would be demolished. He also directed the Ministry of Information to intensify grassroots sensitisation to counter misinformation and prevent panic. “Kogi State will remain strong, united, and secure,” he declared, calling for full cooperation from citizens, miners, youths, vigilantes, and security agencies.
In his remarks, the Ohinoyi of Ebira praised Governor Ododo’s leadership and stressed the need for greater community cooperation. He urged residents to remain alert, report suspicious movements, and secure their homes.
The monarch also commended the state government’s decision to absorb vigilante personnel into the civil service, describing the initiative as “strategic and timely” in boosting grassroots security.
He called for sustained support for security agencies, including improved equipment, continuous training, enhanced welfare, and deeper collaboration to strengthen overall response capacity.
Addressing the root causes of insecurity, the royal father urged the government to expand job opportunities, improve access to quality education, and pursue inclusive development that would unite communities and reduce crime across the state.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
