The newly appointed Commissioner of Police for Kogi State, CP. Miller Gajere Dantawaye, officially assumed office on Thursday, issuing a strong warning to criminals to “Leave the state now, or face the consequences.”
In his first interactive session with journalists at the police headquarters in Lokoja, Dantawaye made it clear that his mission is to tackle crime head-on and ensure the safety of all residents.
“God has brought us here, and we are not here to joke,” he said, expressing his confidence in his appointment by the Inspector General of Police (IGP).
“The IGP believes in my ability, and I am here to deliver on that trust.”
With extensive experience in crime-fighting across the country, Dantawaye assured the public that he is fully prepared to confront the challenges Kogi State faces.
“I have learned a lot from the people I have worked with, and I bring that knowledge to tackle crime in Kogi. When crime rises, we will think outside the box to bring it down to the lowest level possible,” he affirmed.
Dantawaye stressed that criminal elements should be aware that Kogi State is no longer a safe haven for them. “This state is no longer their place,” he said firmly.
Addressing the ongoing issue of herders-farmers clashes, the new CP called on the public to actively participate in the fight against crime by providing the police with valuable intelligence.
“Many people know the locations of criminal hideouts, but fear often prevents them from sharing this crucial information,” Dantawaye acknowledged.
“We need credible intelligence to effectively combat crime. The police can’t be everywhere, but with your help, we can make a difference,” he added.
He said under his leadership, Kogi State police will undergo intensive training, focusing not only on tactical response but also on intelligence gathering, as directed by the IGP.
“Our approach will be comprehensive and proactive,” Dantawaye stressed.
To foster transparency and trust, the new CP committed to making his personal contact information, as well as that of every officer in the command, available to the public.
He reassured citizens that any information shared would be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
Dantawaye takes over from Bernard Onuoha, who retired last week, bringing fresh leadership and renewed determination to Kogi State’s law enforcement efforts.