Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, has vowed that the perpetrators of the recent deadly bandit attack on Egbe community in Yagba West Local Government Area will face justice, insisting that the lives lost in the tragedy will not be in vain.

The governor, represented by his deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu, made the vow on Saturday during a condolence visit to the community where several police officers and local vigilantes were killed while repelling the attackers.

He described the incident as an assault on the peace of Kogi State and the resilience of its people.

Ododo assured residents that his administration was stepping up its support for security agencies through strengthened intelligence sharing, improved logistics, and the establishment of a stronger local security network.

He stressed that efforts were underway to hunt down the assailants and dismantle their hideouts across the state.

Beyond the security measures, the governor extended condolences to the bereaved families, promising that government will provide support to the dependents of the slain officers and vigilantes.

He urged communities not to lose faith or give in to fear but to remain vigilant and collaborate actively with security agencies.

During the visit, Kogi State Security Adviser, Rtd Commander Jerry Omodara, announced plans to establish a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Egbe, noting that the community’s border location makes it a target for criminals fleeing from neighboring states.

He warned local collaborators that the government would not hesitate to deal decisively with anyone aiding criminal activities.

The Elegbe of Egbe, Oba Ayodele Irukera, and youth representatives also used the visit to demand more boots on the ground, stressing that the community needs lasting protection.

They called for deployment of additional personnel, trained forest guards, and increased youth inclusion in security strategies to keep Egbe safe from further attacks.