By Muslimat Itopa
In a renewed effort to rid Kogi State of criminal elements and enhance security across the state, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has procured a fleet of armoured fighting vehicles to support security agencies in their ongoing operations against bandits and other criminal groups.
The governor disclosed this while inspecting the first batch of the vehicles at the Government House in Lokoja on Saturday.
Speaking to journalists after the inspection, Governor Ododo reiterated that security remains one of the cardinal priorities of his administration.
According to him, the acquisition forms part of his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property and ensuring a safe environment for residents and businesses to thrive.
“We are here because we want to provide security for our people. Security is the foundation upon which businesses grow and communities prosper. On the day I was sworn into office, I made a covenant with the people of Kogi State to protect their lives and livelihoods, and we will continue to fulfil that promise,” he said.
The governor revealed that he recently briefed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the security situation in Kogi State and received strong backing from the President to intensify efforts against criminal activities.
He noted that shortly after his return to the state, armed criminals launched an attack in parts of the state, a move he described as an attempt to test the resolve of the government and security agencies.
“On June 10, barely a day after my return, they struck. But by the grace of God and through the coordinated efforts of our security architecture, they met stiff resistance. Our security personnel responded effectively, and today one of the notorious criminal kingpins, popularly known as Batijo, is no more,” he said.
Governor Ododo disclosed that he personally visited Iluke community on June 11 to assess the security situation and understand the challenges facing residents.
“As a field worker, I do not rely solely on reports. I went there myself to inspect the terrain, road network and the general condition of the community. After assessing the situation, I concluded that we must be proactive and not wait for criminals to catch us unprepared,” he added.
The governor explained that the newly acquired armoured vehicles would provide greater protection for security personnel operating in difficult terrains and enable them to take the fight directly to criminal hideouts.
According to him, intelligence reports indicate that bandits are increasingly adopting sophisticated tactics, including the use of drones for surveillance and coordination of attacks.
He, however, commended local hunters, the military, the police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security operatives for their bravery and commitment in confronting the criminals.
Governor Ododo disclosed that the state government had placed an order for 50 armoured vehicles, with the first batch of five already delivered.
“We have ordered 50 armoured fighting vehicles. What you are seeing here is the first batch of five. More will arrive in the coming weeks. No amount of resources spent on securing the lives of our people can be considered too much. The protection of human life remains our highest priority,” he stated.
The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s stance against negotiating with criminals or paying ransom to kidnappers and bandits.
The procurement of the armoured vehicles is expected to significantly boost ongoing security operations across Kogi State, particularly in vulnerable communities facing threats from banditry, kidnapping and other forms of violent crime.
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