Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed determination to escalate offensive against criminal elements undermining peace and security in the state.
Governor Ododo made the declaration on Monday at the Chari Maigumeri Barracks in Lokoja while receiving 16 victims recently rescued from captivity by security agents in the state.
The Governor also held a closed-door meeting with heads of security agencies to review progress made, assess operational challenges, and identify areas requiring further reinforcement.
He disclosed that security forces had successfully dislodged bandits from strongholds once considered impenetrable, with no fewer than seven camps overrun despite fierce resistance in the last few weeks.
He commended the Nigerian Army for its courage and dedication, noting that their efforts have enabled citizens to “sleep with their two eyes closed.”
Governor Ododo praised the high level of professionalism displayed by officers whom he noted remain battle-ready to confront and neutralize criminal elements across the state.
He also commended the synergy among security agencies, describing their collaboration as pivotal to the recent operational successes in Kogi State.
While expressing appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast support and commitment to enhancing security nationwide, the Governor noted federal backing has significantly enhanced ongoing security operations in the state.
Reiterating his administration’s firm stance against crime, the Governor made it clear that the state government will not negotiate with criminals.
The Governor assured that the rescued victims would be reunited with their families and pledged that the state government would provide the necessary support to facilitate their recovery.
Governor Ododo also visited a temporary Camp for Internally Displaced Persons in the Zone 8, area of Lokoja where some unidentified members of the raided camps are awaiting profiling.
He cautioned members of the community to be remain vigilante and resist temptation to collaborate with perpetrators of crime in the state.
The military revealed that the operation was intelligence-driven, involving coordinated efforts by the 12 Brigade and other security agencies.
The success of operation, according to the military, stemmed from strategic intelligence gathering and detailed profiling of key gang leaders identified as Katchalla Shuaibu, Kachalla Ibrahim, Kachalla Babangida, Kachalla Kabiru among other commanders.
Security sources revealed that the operation combined precision air support with ground troops, enabling security forces to penetrate and secure affected communities effectively.
In separate remarks, the freed victims expressed gratitude to the Nigerian military for their rescue and commended the Kogi state government for the intervention.
