Kogi Gov’t Reads Riot Act to Criminals, Sponsors
The Kogi State government has reiterated its policy of zero tolerance for bandits, kidnappers, and their sponsors across the 21 Local Government Areas of the state.
The state government issued the stern warning yesterday in Lokoja through its State Security Adviser, Navy Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd), during a programme on Radio Kogi exclusively monitored by the Fancy Media Team (FMT).
Omodara who specifically urged landlords to conduct thorough background checks on both existing and prospective tenants, vowed that the government of Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo would not hesitate to demolish any property confirmed to be a haven for criminals anywhere in the state.
The Security Adviser appealed to the public for their support and cooperation in the effort to tackle criminals and their collaborators, stressing the importance of timely and credible information.
According to him, curbing crime and criminality is a collective task everyone must contribute to ensuring a safer Kogi, saying that the fight should not be solely left in the hands of the state government.
While commending the present administration for the various steps taken so far to make Kogi State more secure for law-abiding citizens, the Security Adviser highlighted the vital role of food security, which hinges on creating an environment where people can engage in farming activities without fear of being kidnapped or waylaid by criminals.
Omodara urged all stakeholders, particularly the Transition Committee Caretaker Chairmen at the local government level, to take full responsibility for security in their respective areas, noting that reports of breaches in security should be promptly reported to relevant authorities.
He commended the Federal Government’s initiative to promote the establishment of state police, saying that the move would significantly decrease the activities of hoodlums in the state.
