Kogi State Will Not Be Intimidated By Bandits, Says Gov Ododo

Emmanuel Clement

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has vowed that his administration will not be intimidated by bandits, following a recent attack on Egbe community in Yagba West Local Government Area.

Describing the attack as a brutal assault on the state’s peace and humanity, Governor Ododo assured residents that his administration would deliver justice to the fallen heroes and their families.

Speaking during his condolence visit to the Egbe community on Saturday 13, September 2025,the Governor represented by his Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu pledged to intensify collaboration with security agencies, improve community policing, and provide more support and resources to local vigilantes to secure every part of the state.

He said that the state mourns the loss of gallant officers of the Nigeria Police Force and members of the Vigilante Service who paid the supreme price while defending the people.

“Their blood will not be shed in vain. We will not rest until those behind this heinous crime are tracked down, apprehended, and brought to justice,” the Governor said.

The governor went further to extend heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, pledging that the government would stand by them and ensure the dependents of the fallen heroes are not abandoned.

He urged residents not to succumb to fear but to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and promptly report suspicious activities. He also warned against harboring criminals or aiding their operations in any form.

“Together, we’ll overcome. Together, we’ll send a clear message that Kogi State cannot be broken,” Governor Ododo affirmed.

He concluded with prayers for the repose of the souls of the fallen heroes, comfort for their families, and lasting peace across the state.

 

Earlier, in his welcome address, the Chairman of Yagba West Local Government Area, Hon. Tosin Olokun, appreciated the Governor for visiting to assess the extent of the pain inflicted on the community and to commiserate with them, noting that only a caring government would stand with its people at such a time.

The State Security Adviser, Rtd Commander Jerry Omodara, in his remarks, highlighted the strides of the state government in strengthening security in border communities.

He stressed that the government will not allow Egbe to be overrun by criminals, insisting that residents must be able to live in peace and farm without fear.

According to him, most bandits terrorising flashpoints in the state are fleeing from neighboring states, adding that the government has identified their hideouts.

“With the support of the Federal Government and the National Security Adviser, the criminals are being intercepted and neutralised”

Omodara further disclosed plans to establish a Forward Operation Base (FOB) in Egbe to address insecurity in the area, while warning local collaborators and saboteurs that the government will deal with them decisively.

In his remarks, His Royal Highness, Oba Ayodele Irukera, the Elegbe of Egbe, appealed for more security presence, stressing that as a border community, Egbe is highly vulnerable to attacks.

He apologized for the recent road blockade staged by youths, describing it as a reaction to the insecurity in the area.

“It is inhuman for five people to be killed in just one day,” he said, calling for urgent measures to strengthen security in the community.

A youth representative, Engr. Olugbenga David, urged the government to carry young people along in its security strategies, and called for the deployment of more personnel, including trained forest guards, to the area.