……Commends Security Agencies for Major Breakthrough.
Emmanuel lkpeama
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has briefed the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, on the successful operation that led to the dismantling of the terror network led by notorious bandit kingpin, Kachalla Ibrahim Battijo, describing the feat as a major victory in the fight against terrorism and banditry.
During a meeting with the NSA, Governor Ododo provided a detailed account of the intelligence-led operation that culminated in the elimination of Battijo and several members of his criminal gang.
He attributed the success to the strong collaboration between federal security agencies, local security structures and the Kogi State Government.
According to a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, sophisticated intelligence gathering exposed a plot by Battijo and his gang to attack and abduct students writing the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) at Government Secondary School, Iluke, in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area.
Acting swiftly on the intelligence, the Kogi State Government relocated the students to a safer location within Iluke town, ensuring the continuation of their examinations without disruption and protecting them from the looming threat.
Despite the proactive measures, the terrorists reportedly launched an attack on the community in a desperate attempt to carry out their mission.
However, troops of the Nigerian military, working in collaboration with other security agencies, the Kogi State Vigilante Service and local hunters, successfully repelled the assault.
The fierce gun battle that followed resulted in the elimination of Battijo and devastating losses for his gang. Security forces subsequently carried out clearance operations, recovering more than fifteen bodies of bandits and neutralising additional members of the criminal network who had attempted to evade capture.
In a follow-up operation led by the Commander of the 12 Brigade, Brigadier General Karim Sidi, troops recovered the remains of the slain terrorist leader for further examination and intelligence purposes.
Governor Ododo praised the National Security Adviser, Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police and the Director-General of the Department of State Services for their unwavering support and commitment to restoring peace and security in Kogi State.
He also commended members of the Kogi State Vigilante Service and local hunters for their courage, patriotism and invaluable local intelligence, which played a crucial role in the success of the operation.
The Governor expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture and providing the leadership needed to confront terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes across the country.
According to him, the successful dismantling of Battijo’s terror network and the sustained gains against criminal elements nationwide are clear indications that the Federal Government’s security initiatives are yielding tangible results.
“Kogi State will never be a safe haven for terrorists, bandits or any criminal group.
We will continue to work closely with federal security agencies to protect our people and ensure that our territory is not used as a launching pad for attacks on neighbouring states,” Ododo stated.
Responding, NSA Mallam Nuhu Ribadu described the operation as a significant breakthrough in Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts, noting that Battijo was among the most dangerous terrorist figures operating in the country.
He commended Governor Ododo’s courage, commitment and uncompromising stance against insecurity, stressing that the achievement demonstrates the effectiveness of synergy between state governments and federal security institutions.
Ribadu also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s support for Kogi State, highlighting its strategic importance as a gateway state linking the Federal Capital Territory and several other parts of the country.
The operation, which led to the elimination of Battijo, the recovery of numerous bandits’ bodies and the dismantling of a dangerous criminal network, is being hailed as one of the most significant counter-terrorism successes recorded in recent times, further strengthening confidence in ongoing efforts to secure lives, protect communities and restore lasting peace across Nigeria.