By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has clarified that the recent Executive Proclamation in Kogi State on security protocols is not a declaration of a state of emergency but a set of lawful measures designed to strengthen the state’s security architecture and curb criminal activities.The clarification was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday in Lokoja by the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Ismaila Isah. The statement explained that the proclamation is a constitutional step aimed at improving coordination among security agencies and safeguarding lives and property across the state.Governor Ododo stressed that the Executive Proclamation in Kogi State falls within his constitutional powers as the Chief Security Officer of the state, as provided under Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). He emphasized that the measures do not suspend civil liberties or undermine democratic governance.
According to the Governor, the proclamation is focused on enhancing collaboration among security agencies, strengthening intelligence-sharing, and closing gaps that have been exploited by criminal elements. He noted that at no point did the government contemplate or declare a state of emergency.The security measures outlined in the proclamation include the verification of security operatives, mandatory identification checks, and the prosecution of individuals or groups found aiding or abetting criminals such as bandits and terrorists. The Governor explained that these steps are necessary to address the growing menace of impersonation by fake security personnel.Ododo warned that anyone found supporting or facilitating criminal activities would be treated as an enemy of the state and prosecuted in accordance with existing laws. He added that properties and assets used in the commission of crimes would be confiscated by the Kogi State Government.The Governor noted that the forfeiture of such properties is backed by relevant constitutional provisions as well as the Kogi State Anti-Kidnapping, Robbery and Terrorism Law of 2016. The law, he said, empowers the state to seize assets linked to violent crimes committed within its territory.
Reiterating his administration’s commitment to peace and security, Ododo expressed appreciation to security agencies for their sustained efforts in combating crime. He assured residents that the government remains fully committed to protecting lives, maintaining public order, and restoring confidence across all communities.The clarification follows public reactions to the rollout of new security protocols announced on Tuesday, shortly after security agencies recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition from criminal hideouts in the state. The recovery, according to the government, was the result of intelligence-led joint operations involving multiple security agencies.Governor Ododo urged residents to remain calm, law-abiding, and supportive of security agencies by providing credible information. He reaffirmed that the Executive Proclamation in Kogi State is a proactive and preventive measure aimed at eliminating criminal networks and ensuring lasting security for all citizens.
