Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has banned night arrests across the state, directing security operatives to stop invading homes and arresting residents under the cover of darkness.
He issued the directive on Monday while addressing first-class traditional rulers at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Lokoja.
The Governor said all arrests and security operations must be conducted in accordance with the law, stressing that the fundamental rights and dignity of citizens must be respected.
He directed anyone with a case against an individual to follow due process by lawfully inviting the person during the day, rather than resorting to night arrests.
Ododo warned that his administration would not tolerate harassment, intimidation or unlawful arrests, urging traditional rulers to report security personnel who violate the directive.
“Security operations must be civil, lawful and humane,” he said, adding that the government would not condone abuse of power under any guise.
The Governor also commended President Bola Tinubu for his support for Kogi State, particularly in infrastructure and security.
He described the ongoing reconstruction of the Abuja-Lokoja-Okene-Benin highway as a major project that would boost economic activities and improve connectivity between the North-Central and South-South regions.
Ododo also praised the President for strengthening the country’s security architecture and supporting local security initiatives in Kogi.
He called for greater support for the Chief of Army Staff, stressing that national security must begin with ensuring peace and stability in communities where security personnel and their families reside.
The Governor commended traditional rulers for their contributions to peace and security, acknowledging their prayers, guidance and sacrifices in the fight against criminal elements.
However, he expressed concern over individuals who provide food, logistics and information to criminals, warning that anyone found aiding or collaborating with criminals would face the law regardless of their relationship or status.
Ododo specifically urged traditional rulers to caution associations and groups, including woodcutters, against activities that could aid criminal elements.
He said the government’s strategy of blocking supply routes and shutting down compromised markets was already putting pressure on criminals operating in the state.
On the forthcoming general elections, Ododo urged traditional rulers to use their influence to promote peace, tolerance and violence-free elections.
“We cannot be killing ourselves to get to a position. Campaign should be issue-based, not about religion or ethnicity. We are all Kogites,” he said.
The Governor further urged traditional rulers to work with community leaders, youths and political stakeholders to ensure peaceful elections before, during and after the polls.
He charged them to remain neutral advocates of peace and prevent individuals or groups from using their communities as platforms for political violence.
Ododo said Kogi must continue to reject thuggery, violence and intimidation while ensuring that citizens are free to exercise their democratic rights.
