Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
The Governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has unveiled a bold and comprehensive security blueprint, declaring that the state “will not bow to criminal intimidation.”
The announcement came during the Kogi State Peace and Security Council Meeting held on Thursday at Government House, Lokoja, attended by top traditional rulers, security agencies, and community leaders.
Describing the gathering as one of the most strategic security engagements in recent times, Governor Ododo reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
Among the dignitaries present was His Royal Majesty, Dr. Ahmed Tijani Muhammed Anaje, the Ohinoyi of Ebira, who delivered a compelling message of unity, vigilance, and active community participation.
In his address, the Governor outlined immediate measures to close security gaps, particularly around mining sites, which he identified as “potential magnets for criminal groups if left unregulated.”
His action plan includes enhanced intelligence gathering, improved surveillance, better access to remote areas, and upgraded logistics for rapid-response teams.
Governor Ododo directed a full profiling of all mining activities in the state, including owners, locations, workers, output levels, and existing security measures, while giving Local Government Chairmen one week to submit comprehensive lists of mining sites and companies.
He further mandated mining and other high-value companies to donate two Hilux vehicles each to the State Security Trust Fund within three months.
Additionally, he called for stronger joint operations involving the military, police, and paramilitary agencies, with special focus on forests, schools, worship centres, and mining corridors.
On holiday travel and road safety, the Governor acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ongoing federal road projects and instructed security agencies to support the Federal Road Safety Corps from 10 December 2025, to 15 January 2026.
He also urged Local Government Chairmen to intensify security meetings, strengthen vigilante groups, and expedite mining data collection.
Traditional and religious leaders were assigned critical responsibilities under the new security architecture.
Traditional rulers are to monitor land use and identify new entrants into their domains, while religious leaders were advised to promote peace and temporarily suspend night activities in worship centres.
Reiterating his zero-tolerance policy toward criminality, Governor Ododo warned that any house harbouring criminals will be demolished.
He also directed the Ministry of Information to intensify grassroots sensitisation to prevent misinformation and panic.
“Kogi State will remain strong, united, and secure,” he affirmed, urging full cooperation from citizens, youths, vigilantes, miners, and security agencies.
In his remarks, the Ohinoyi of Ebira, His Royal Majesty Dr. Ahmed Tijani Mohammed Anaje, praised the administration’s proactive leadership and called for stronger community cooperation.
He stressed that security is a shared responsibility and encouraged residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and secure their homes.
The monarch commended the state government’s decision to convert vigilante personnel into civil servants, describing it as “strategic and timely” for enhancing grassroots security.
He also appealed for improved support to security agencies, including modern equipment, continuous training, better welfare, and deeper collaboration to strengthen their response capabilities.
Addressing the underlying causes of insecurity, the Ohinoyi urged the government to tackle socio-economic challenges by creating more job opportunities, expanding access to quality education, and promoting inclusive development that fosters unity and tolerance across the state.
