The Kogi State Government has returned residents of Ogbabon and Jakura communities who were evacuated three weeks ago over security concerns back to their communities, assuring them of improved security and sustained government support.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, represented by the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd), disclosed this during the presentation of gift items including 200 bags of rice and four cows to representatives of the affected communities as part of efforts to ease their resettlement back home.
Omodara explained that the initial evacuation followed a comprehensive review of the security situation in the areas.
He revealed that credible intelligence reports had indicated that some community members were collaborating with bandits by providing them with information and logistics, a development that contributed to the decision by the state government to evacuate residents in order to cut off the linkage.
According to him, the state government, in collaboration with security agencies, took proactive steps to restore peace and stability, thereby creating a safer environment for residents to return home.
The Security Adviser stressed that the government would continue to work closely with community stakeholders in the fight against insecurity.
He, however, warned that any individual found aiding banditry in any form or guise would be treated as a bandit and would be made to face the full weight of the law.
Omodara noted hat adequate relief materials will be provided to cushion the impact of displacement on affected families.
He added that security personnel would maintain a strong presence in the communities to prevent any resurgence of threats, emphasizing that the administration remains proactive in addressing security challenges across the state.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Lokoja Local Government Area, Abdullahi Adamu commended the governor for his commitment to tackling insecurity in all parts of the state.
He observed that the temporary closure of schools and some markets in some parts of the state yielded positive results by significantly disrupting the supply of food and logistics to criminal elements.
Speaking onbehalf of the communities, the Obaro of Ogbabon, Hussein Adoga, expressed deep appreciation to Governor Ododo for the swift intervention and support extended to his people.
He pledged continued cooperation with security agencies to sustain peace in the community.
The traditional ruler who recounted his personal ordeal as a victim of kidnapping in 2018, during which he tragically lost his son stressed that, given his painful experience, he could never support or cooperate with bandits but would instead collaborate fully with the government to rid the community of criminal elements.
