Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has taken a firm stance on regional security, declaring that his administration will maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward banditry and kidnapping. The Governor emphasized that the state government will under no circumstances engage in negotiations with criminals, describing such overtures as a sign of weakness that emboldens lawlessness.
Speaking during a high-level security meeting, Governor Ododo reiterated that the primary responsibility of his government is to protect the lives and property of Kogi residents through decisive action rather than dialogue with insurgents. He noted that the state is significantly scaling up its investment in local vigilante groups and formal security agencies to ensure every corner of the state is policed. The Governor also issued a stern warning to those providing intelligence or logistics to criminal elements, stating that the law will catch up with anyone attempting to undermine the state’s stability, regardless of their status.
