Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has reiterated his administration’s firm resolve to make the state uninhabitable for criminal elements.
Governor Ododo made this known over the weekend during the 2025 Ekinrin-Adde Day celebration, where he was represented by his Deputy, Comrade Joel Oyibo Salifu.
The Governor emphasized that the state will never be a haven for crime and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity head-on and ensuring the safety of all residents.
“Let it be clear, Kogi State is not, and will never be, a safe haven for criminals. We have declared a full-blown war on crime, and recent successes by our security forces are only the beginning. If you are involved in criminal activity, I advise you to desist immediately or face the full wrath of the law,” he stated.
He cited the recent arrest of 26 suspected kidnappers and their collaborators in the Kabba-Bunu Forest a joint effort by the Civilian Joint Task Force and conventional security agencies as one of the many victories in the ongoing fight against insecurity in the state.
Governor Ododo also used the occasion to express his full support for the development of the community, pledging to support the multi-million-naira Ekinrin-Adde Infrastructural Development Fund.
The Governor praised the communal spirit of the people of Ekinrin-Adde, describing their dedication to community development and unity as a model for other communities in the state.
He said the celebration was more than a cultural festival; it was a demonstration of the people’s commitment to progress and development.
“I salute the commitment and love you have shown for your homeland. What we are witnessing today is not just a celebration of culture; it is a celebration of purpose, unity, and resilience. This is the spirit that builds strong communities and, by extension, a stronger Kogi State,” he said.
He assured the community of the government’s readiness to partner with the Ekinrin-Adde Community Development Association (EACDA) in realizing the fund’s objectives.
“We are fully behind this noble initiative. Our government will work closely with the EACDA to ensure its success. Together, we can build a more resilient and prosperous Ekinrin-Adde, and by extension, a better Kogi State,”.
Earlier, the National President of the Ekinrin-Adde Community Development Association, Elder Deinde Toyin Komolafe, praised the consistency and growth of the annual festival, which he noted has become a unifying force and developmental platform for the community for over three decades.
He commended the efforts of community leaders past, present and paid special tribute to Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, the member representing Ikeja Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, whom he described as a true son and an ambassador of Ekinrin-Adde, for his outstanding contributions to the development of the community.
“We have come together today, from all corners of the country and the diaspora, to celebrate the values we hold dear and the spirit of self determination,” he said.
The ceremony was graced by prominent sons and daughters of the land, as well as friends of the community, including Senator Sunday Karimi, Hon. Usman Bello Kumo, the Secretary to the Kogi State Government, Dr. (Mrs.) Folashade Arike Ayoade, Members of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Commissioners, and other top government officials.
