Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has said that the state government will not yield to pressure or enter into any form of negotiation with bandits or criminal elements threatening the peace of the state.
Governor Ododo made the declaration during a Peace and Security Council Meeting held on Thursday in Lokoja.
The Governor announced that all public gathering in the state be restricted from continuing beyond 4PM, warning that anyone who disobeys the directive will face legal consequences.
According to him, the state government is working closely with security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and youth groups to strengthen security and ensure the safety of all residents.
He added that his administration is determined to take the fight to criminal elements, rather than wait for them to disturb the peace of communities in the state.
The Governor also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support in enhancing security architecture in the state and other parts of the country, especially his intervention in the successful rescue of kidnapped students and church members in different parts of the country.
Speaking at the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Ayo Edun, praised the strong collaboration among security agencies and traditional institutions. He assured residents that the police are fully prepared to repel any form of intimidation in the state.
He urged communities not to succumb to rumours capable of causing panic, advising residents to report unverified information circulating within their communities to the police for clarification.
The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Alhaji Ahmed Tijani Muhammed Anaje, commended the proactive approach by the government to security matters and reiterated the commitment of traditional institutions to support ongoing efforts.
