Bandits Are Reaching Out to Surrender Their Arms – Kogi Security Adviser
Kogi State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd), says some bandits are reaching out to the state government to surrender their arms.
This followed recent military operations against hideouts and the demolition of houses used for criminal activities in some parts of the state.
He stated that the state has deployed technology to combat insecurity over the past two years under Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s administration.
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Commander Omodara, speaking with newsmen in Lokoja about the governor’s security achievements, noted that deploying technology has enabled the state to outsmart criminals.
Recall that during his inaugural address as the fifth Executive Governor of Kogi, the Confluence State, on January 27th, 2024, Alhaji Ahmed Ododo vowed to do everything humanly possible to ensure the safety of lives and property.
One of the state government’s strengths is its use of technology, as plans are already underway to intensify efforts to take the fight to criminals in the bush.
The Security Adviser said several Hilux vehicles, Sienna cars, and motorcycles have been provided to the Army, Police, Vigilante, and other security outfits.
He stated that one of the governor’s key policies is refusing to negotiate with criminals, noting that some have reached out to surrender their arms.
He said instead of negotiating with them, security agencies will sustain the current onslaught by taking the fight to them in the forest.
The Security Adviser pointed out that the government is working on legislation to ban living in the bush, saying anyone who wants to stay in Kogi must live in a town or known settlement.
Commander Omodara noted that apart from the military operations in the North that are forcing bandits to flee to the state, local collaborators are also assisting, and some are now facing the law.
He maintained that despite the upsurge in banditry and insurgency, Kogi remains the safest state in North Central, attributing the success to intelligence gathering and the political will demonstrated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Ododo.
Commander Omodara added that over three thousand vigilante officers have been employed into the state workforce and are providing adequate support.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, JANUARY 16TH 2026)
