News Investigators/ Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo, on Monday vowed to defeat criminals and criminality hampering peace and development of the state.
Mr Ododo made the vow when he visited Isanlu-Esa in Yagba West Local Government Area of the state , decalsing that his administration has firmly resolved to stamp out criminal activities in the area.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the visit followed recent cases of kidnapping and killings along Okunran, Okoloke, and Isanlu-Esa communities, which have heightened tension in the area.
The governor was received by the Commander of the Nigerian Army in charge of the operation, Brig.- Gen. K. U. Sidi.
Mr Ododo commended combined efforts of the security agencies, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, Department of State Services, and special forces in combating criminality in the area.
“Let me thank you, the security operatives, for your efforts at ensuring adequate security in this area.
“Your synergy has made your assignment easier, and I am always ready to provide all necessary support to triumph over criminality.
“l assure the people of this community that I truly share in your pains, and I am determined to make criminality a thing of the past in this local government.
“I was elected to protect lives and property, and we will not relent until Kogi is safe, ” he said.
Mr Ododo also paid tribute to the gallant officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, assuring their families that their sacrifices would not be in vain.
He cautioned traditional rulers against indiscriminate allocation of land to unknown individuals, stressing that henceforth, anyone with mining licences must be properly profiled by the government and security agencies to prevent security breaches.
He reaffirmed the support of President Bola Tinubu to ensuring peace and security across Kogi and Nigeria, commending the National Security Adviser and the Security Chiefs for effectively implementing the President’s policies toward a safer nation.
Sidi commended the governor for his sustained support to the security agencies, stressing that the provision of logistics and other assistance had strengthened their capacity to secure the area.
He also acknowledged the “invaluable contributions” of the Hybrid Force from the Office of the National Security Adviser to the ongoing operation in Yagba West.
In his remarks, the traditional ruler of Isanlu-Esa, His Royal Highness Oba Olufemi Theophilus, thanked the governor for personally visiting the community, describing it as show of concern to the people.
He also described the visit as a demonstration of responsive and responsible leadership.
The royal father, however, appealed to the security agencies to maintain their presence in the area until criminal activities are completely eradicated.
He also urged the Federal Government to fix the road leading to the community to facilitate free movement and enhance security operations.
NAN
