By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Kogi State Government has condemned recent security breaches in the state, including an attack on security personnel in Yagba West Local Government Area, which claimed the lives of some police officers, and a kidnapping incident along the Lokoja-Obajana road.
In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, the government confirmed that 17 abducted bus passengers were rescued through the swift intervention of the Army and local hunters.
“We are relieved to announce that the kidnapped bus passengers have been successfully rescued by the prompt intervention of the Army and local hunters, who went after the kidnappers to ensure the 17 abducted passengers were rescued,” the statement read.
Fanwo said the rescued victims were taken to medical facilities for proper examination and care. He commended the joint security response, describing it as proof of the operatives’ capacity and resolve to protect lives and property in the state.
The government extended condolences to the families of the slain officers, praising their courage and sacrifice. “Their sacrifice will never be forgotten, and their courage will continue to inspire the fight against criminality in our dear state,” the statement added.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo reaffirmed his administration’s determination to combat crime and ensure the safety of lives and property across the state. He said personnel and security equipment were already being deployed to strategic locations to forestall further breaches and restore calm.
The government urged security agencies to intensify investigations to bring the perpetrators to justice, while also calling on residents to cooperate by providing timely information to aid security operations.
“We assure the people of Kogi State that our government will never submit to acts of terror. Together with the support of the people and the resilience of our security agencies, we will overcome those who seek to disrupt the peace of our land,” Fanwo stated.
