By Ojotule Romanus
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has issued a stern warning to criminals declaring that Kogi State is no longer a fertile ground for their activities.
Governor Ododo read the riot act to criminals when he led top military officers on an inspection tour of the project site of the newly established 21 Battalion Barracks in Anyigba, Kogi State.
While promising criminals tougher times ahead, the governor warned the they will no longer be tolerated or harbored within the state.
Related News
He equally pledged to support the efforts of the military towards addressing the security challenges in the state.
The Governor acknowledged that the presence of the military formation has led to a significant improvement in security across kogi East.
He highlighted the drastic drop in cases of kidnapping, armed robbery, and other criminal activities since the arrival of the troops as testament of the successes recorded through military operations.Just as he emphasised that the enhanced security has made Kogi State no longer a safe haven for criminals.
The Governor used the occasion to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his strategic investment and unwavering commitment to strengthening security architecture across Nigeria, particularly in Kogi State.
Ododo noted that the Federal Government’s support for security agencies has been instrumental in curtailing criminal activities. And that President Tinubu approved air support whenever necessary to enhance security operations in the state.
His words, “I am here today to appreciate all the gallant officers who are making sacrifices daily to ensure that our people sleep with their two eyes closed. Since your arrival, the security situation in Kogi East has improved tremendously. Cases of kidnapping, armed robbery and other criminal activities have reduced significantly,” Governor Ododo stated.
“Criminals now know that Kogi State is not a fertile land for them. There is no market for criminality in our state. We will continue to confront them until they have no hiding place,” he further added.
Governor Ododo particularly commended President Tinubu for providing critical support to states in the fight against insecurity, noting that the President has consistently demonstrated a practical commitment to securing lives and property across the federation.
“Mr. President is doing well. He has supported the sub-national governments immensely. He cannot be in all the 36 states fighting criminals, so we serve as his foot soldiers. We are working together to ensure that every part of Kogi remains safe and secure.”
“Mr. President has graciously granted approval that whenever we need air support, it will be made available. This demonstrates his commitment to ensuring that security agencies have the resources required to effectively combat criminality,” the Governor revealed.
Ododo also acknowledged the contributions of the Office of the National Security Adviser under Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Chief of Army Staff, the Inspector General of Police, the Director General of the Department of State Services, and other security chiefs for their coordinated efforts in restoring peace and stability.
The Governor reiterated his administration’s determination to continue investing heavily in security, stressing that no amount of resources would be considered too much when it comes to protecting lives and property.
“No amount of resources will be too much to deploy in saving lives. Our administration remains committed to supporting security agencies with everything necessary to protect our people. Security remains our top priority because without security, there can be no meaningful development,” he said.
While commending the Commanding Officer of the 21 Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Godiya Monday for his leadership and dedication, Governor Ododo praised the officers and soldiers for their patriotism, courage and selfless service to the nation.
“You are rendering selfless service to Nigeria. We may not be able to adequately repay your sacrifices, but history will remember your commitment and dedication. We are proud of you and we will continue to stand firmly behind you,” he said.
The Governor assured the military authorities that the Kogi State Government would continue to provide every necessary support required to sustain the gains already recorded in the fight against insecurity, especially as farmers prepare for the planting season.
He urged the troops to sustain the momentum and remain focused on their mandate of protecting communities from criminal elements, expressing confidence that the combined efforts of the Federal Government, the military and other security agencies would ultimately defeat all threats to peace and stability in the state.
