Kogi State government has declared the state a no go area for criminally minded people and lauded the government at the centre for strengthening security architecture across the country.
Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State has praised President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering dedication to strengthening Nigeria’s security framework, especially in Kogi State. Governance
He said the President’s strategic investments and support of security agencies have drastically reduced criminal activities in the state.
Ododo made the comments during a recent inspection visit to the newly established 21 Battalion Barracks in Anyigba, Kogi State, where he inspected operational facilities and interacted with the military personnel deployed to the area.
The Governor, impressed by the level of operational readiness and the rapid establishment of the military formation, described the barracks as a clear demonstration of President Tinubu’s resolve to support sub-national governments in confronting insecurity across the country.
According to him, the deployment of the military formation has made tremendous progress in the area of security in Kogi East, resulting in drastic reduction in cases of kidnapping, armed robbery, communal conflicts and other criminal activities that hitherto threatened the peace of the area.
His words: “I am here today to appreciate all the gallant officers who are making sacrifices on a daily basis to ensure that our people sleep with their two eyes closed. The security situation in Kogi East has improved tremendously since you arrived. “Kidnapping, armed robbery and other criminal activities have reduced considerably.”
The Governor said criminals have come to know that Kogi State is no longer a fertile ground for their operations, adding that there is no market for criminality anywhere within the state.
“Now criminals know that Kogi State is not a conducive environment for them. There is no market for crime in our state. “We will continue to confront them until there is nowhere for them to hide,” he said.
Ododo, who especially commended President Tinubu for giving critical support to states in the fight against insecurity, said the President had proved a practical commitment to securing lives and property across the federation.
“The President is doing fine. He has been very supportive of the sub-national governments. He can’t be everywhere fighting criminals in all the 36 states so we are his foot soldiers. “We’re working together to ensure that every part of Kogi is safe and secured.
He also said that the Federal Government under President Tinubu has approved needed air support for security operations whenever required, describing the intervention as a major boost to the ongoing efforts against criminal elements.
“Mr. President has been kind enough to give the go-ahead that whenever we need air support, it will be supplied. This demonstrates his commitment that security agencies be well equipped to effectively fight criminality.”
Ododo also commended the Office of the National Security Adviser under Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Chief of Army Staff, Inspector General of Police, Director General of the Department of State Services and other security chiefs for their collaborative role in restoring peace and stability.
The Governor reiterated the determination of his government to continue to make massive investments in security, saying no amount of resources would be too much to protect lives and property. Government
“We will not spare any resources in saving lives. “We stand behind our security agencies with whatever they need to protect our people. “Security is our number one priority because without security there can be no meaningful development,” he said.
Responding, Ododo commended the Commanding Officer of the 21 Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Godiya Solomon Monday for his leadership and dedication, while congratulating the officers and soldiers for their patriotism, courage and selfless service to the nation.
He said, “You are rendering selfless service to Nigeria. Although we may not be able to adequately repay your sacrifices, history will recognize your commitment and dedication. We are proud of you and we’re going to stand strong behind you.”
The Governor assured military authorities that the state Government would continue to give all necessary support required to sustain the gains recorded so far in the fight against insecurity, especially as the planting season approaches.
He urged the troops to maintain the momentum and remain focused on their mandate of protecting communities from criminal elements, expressing confidence that the combined efforts of the Federal Government, the military and other security agencies would ultimately defeat all threats to peace and stability in the state.