Bandits commanders have relocated to Kogi State — Gov. Ododo cries out
Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, has raised an alarm over the infiltration of terrorist and bandit commanders into the state, warning that security agencies are ready to launch an offensive against them.
Speaking to journalists after an emergency stakeholders’ meeting with security agencies and traditional rulers at the Government House in Lokoja on Thursday, the governor said the recent spike in attacks was linked to the relocation of bandit commanders into Kogi in the last three days.
He vowed that his administration would not allow the criminals to establish a foothold in the state.
“The major commanders of the bandits have relocated to Kogi State in the last three days, but we will not wait for them to fight us; we will take the fight to them,” Mr Ododo said.
“We are not going to bow to the criminals, we are not going to negotiate with them, we are not going to pay ransom. We will sensitise our people to be security conscious of their activities.”
The governor noted that the insecurity challenge was not peculiar to Kogi alone but part of a wider national and global threat.
“Before now, you hear of shootings in schools and residences across the world… We have to put heads together to save our people. We have come to brainstorm and find solutions that will provide our people with the needed security,” he added.
Following the meeting, the State Security Council issued a directive that all public activities — religious or social — must end by 4:00 p.m. until further notice.
The governor warned that any event centre that flouts the order risks demolition.
Deputy Commissioner of Police, Ayo Edun, appealed to residents to remain calm, warning against the spread of unverified reports and social media rumours which could worsen public anxiety.
He advised residents to verify information before sharing and report suspicious activity through the officially circulated security hotlines.
The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Tijani Anaje, who spoke on behalf of traditional rulers, pledged total cooperation with security agencies and the state government.
He expressed concern over fake videos and misleading messages being circulated on social media, calling for coordinated community action to protect lives and property.
Meanwhile, the state government has dismissed rumours of bandit attacks or kidnapping threats targeting Kogi State Polytechnic or any school in the Lokoja metropolis.
In a statement, the Commissioner of Information described the reports as “satanic panic” being spread by mischief makers.
“There is no bandit attack or kidnapping threat at Kogi State Polytechnic or any school in Lokoja. The rumour is baseless and should be completely dismissed.
“We urge our people to go about their lawful businesses without fear. Government is working round the clock with all security agencies to guarantee the safety and security of every Kogite, wherever they live or stay.
