Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed that his administration will intensify collaboration with security agencies, improve community policing, and provide more support and resources to local vigilantes to secure every part of the state by providing adequate security.

The governor, who strongly condemned the recent bandits’ attack on Egbe community in Yagba West Local Government Area, described it as a brutal attack on the peace and humanity of Kogi State.

Ododo, who was speaking during his condolence visit to the Egbe community during the weekend, and represented by his Deputy, Joel Salifu, said the state is mourning the loss of gallant officers of the Nigeria Police Force and members of the Vigilante Service who paid the supreme price while defending the people.

“Their blood will not be shed in vain. We will not rest until those behind this heinous crime are tracked down, apprehended, and brought to justice,” the governor said.

He assured the people of the state that his administration would intensify collaboration with security agencies, improve community policing, and provide more support and resources to local vigilantes to secure every part of the state.

According to him, “To the bereaved families, Governor Ododo extended heartfelt condolences, pledging that the government will stand by them and ensure the dependents of the fallen heroes are not abandoned, and commended the swift response of security agencies and local vigilantes to security threats.”

He urged residents not to succumb to fear but to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and promptly report suspicious activities, as he warned against harbouring criminals or aiding their operations in any form.

“Together, we will overcome and send a clear message that Kogi State cannot be broken,” Governor Ododo affirmed.

He concluded with prayers for the repose of the souls of the fallen heroes, comfort for their families, and prayed for lasting peace across he state.

Earlier, in his welcome address, the Chairman of Yagba West Local Government Area, Hon. Tosin Olokun, appreciated the governor for visiting to assess the extent of the pain inflicted on the community and to commiserate with them, noting that only a caring government would stand with its people at such a time.

Also speaking, the State Security Adviser, Rtd Commander Jerry Omodara, highlighted the strides of the state government in strengthening security in border communities.

He stressed that the government would not allow Egbe to be overrun by criminals, insisting that residents must be able to live in peace and farm without fear.

Omodara further disclosed plans to establish a Forward Operation Base (FOB) in Egbe to address insecurity in the area, while warning local collaborators and saboteurs that the government will deal with them decisively.

In his remarks, His Royal Highness, Oba Ayodele Irukera, the Elegbe of Egbe, appealed for more security presence, stressing that as a border community, Egbe is highly vulnerable to attacks.

He apologized for the recent road blockade staged by youths, describing it as a reaction to the insecurity in the area. “It is inhuman for five people to be killed in just one day,” he said, calling for urgent measures to strengthen security in the community.

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