By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Usman Ododo, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to tackling criminal activities across the state.
He assured residents that the safety and security of lives and property remain a top priority, declaring that his government is taking decisive action—not paying lip service—to ensure the protection of its people.
Addressing journalists in Lokoja on Friday, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, emphasized that the Ododo-led administration has taken concrete steps to address security flashpoints. He stressed that Kogi is not under siege and will not be.
Fanwo acknowledged ongoing security concerns in parts of Yagba land, particularly in Yagba West, but said the situation is being managed carefully and discreetly to prevent escalation.
“We are managing the fine line between urgency and the need to tread softly to avoid compounding the situation. Government is on top of the matter. Our interventions are guided, targeted, and strategic,” he said.
Addressing reports of alleged threats to churches in Yagba East, Fanwo stated that Governor Ododo has ordered thorough investigations to verify the claims.
“Security has not broken down in any part of Kogi and will not break down. We are in advanced stages of collaboration with national security agencies to neutralize every threat to peace and stability in our state,” he said.
The Commissioner commended local security outfits such as the Okun hunters and other grassroots initiatives for their crucial roles in maintaining peace and order.
“These community-based efforts are central to our security strategy. His Excellency has directed the State Security Adviser to deepen community engagement and resistance mechanisms against insecurity,” Fanwo said.
He added that intelligence reports have identified the locations of certain criminal elements. However, he noted that security operations are being executed with caution to avoid collateral damage.
“These criminals are hiding behind innocent Nigerians, many of whom have been kidnapped from Kogi and other states. Our mission is to secure our people without endangering innocent lives,” he explained.
Fanwo also issued a stern warning to the media, urging journalists and media houses not to act as “image makers for criminals.”
“These criminals are engaged in psychological warfare, using flash attacks and amplified media coverage to spread fear and create a false perception of strength. We must not aid them. Insecurity affects us all, and the media must act responsibly,” he said.
He acknowledged that while there have been isolated security breaches, the government is actively responding and remains confident of victory.
“We are working, we are hopeful, and we are winning. We are on their trail. We have taken the fight to them. This is not a media war, so we won’t speak much about it. Actions are ongoing. Kogi will not submit to terror. The Governor is committed to securing every inch of Kogi soil,” he said.
He also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support through the Office of the National Security Adviser, including the deployment of capital assets such as helicopters to combat emerging threats.
“We deeply appreciate the President’s commitment to national security. Kogi will remain eternally grateful,” he added.
Fanwo called on residents to support security efforts by volunteering credible intelligence to the authorities, stressing that collective resolve and cooperation are key to defeating criminal elements.
