From Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Kogi state Commissioner of Information and communication, Hon. Kingsley Fanwo on Monday in Lokoja vowed not to submit state authority to criminal as Security Agencies would ensure that all those inciting political violence in the state be held responsible and account for their claims.
The commissioner who gave the assertion at their quarterly press briefing in Lokoja said “We can’t come this far taming terrorists for the past 90 months only to lose it to the garrulous crime-sponsors defending a criminal.”
He said the government is waiting for the Law Enforcement agents to unravel the mystery by inviting those making unguarded, reckless statements without minding the approbrium of being associated with a serial killer.
The commissioner stressed that the Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria talked extensively about the various rights conferred on the citizens of Nigeria, one of which is the right to life adding that these rights have limitations. “Kabir Bala opened fire on security operatives with the intent to murder them.” He added.
” According to the report by the security agencies, they engaged his gang at this point and he was neutralised in the process. A person who attempts to evade lawful arrest and even attempts to kill security agents can no longer hold on to such rights. His killing couldn’t be termed extra-judicial by any standard. ”
“we reiterate our endorsement of the operation that has brought down insecurity in that area by over 40%. The late Kabir Bala popularly known as Okwo was a terror in the East, kidnapping and raping young women and housewives and terrorising the entire Kogi East. Motorists traversing the state were subjected to “Okwo levy” to the embarrassment of the State, among other acts of extreme intimidation and criminality. ”
He assured that Government will do everything within the curve of law to guarantee a peaceful poll in November stressing that it is the responsibility of government to give confidence to its citizenry that they are free from attacks while exercising their franchise.
” Intimidation, ethnic and religious profiling and other anti-social and unconstitutional act will be met with stiff resistance. It is our duty to the people to create a conducive atmosphere for all to vote any party of their choice. “
