COMMANDER JERRY OMODARA (RTD): THE VERSATILE SECURITY ARCHITECT STEERING KOGI TO PEACE
By Temiloluwa Samuel
In the quiet corridors of power in Kogi State, one name keeps coming up whenever the conversation turns to peace, intelligence, and community engagement: Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd).
As the State Security Adviser to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, Omodara is not the typical “sit-in-office” appointee. Over the last year, he has positioned himself as a field commander, political mobilizer, and bridge-builder — a rare blend that has made him one of the most versatile security advisers in the state’s history.
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A retired naval officer, Omodara brought with him the discipline of the military and the strategy of intelligence work. But what sets him apart is how he has adapted that training to Kogi’s peculiar security landscape — a state that shares boundaries with 10 other states and sits at the heart of Nigeria.
His approach has been three-pronged: _enforcement, engagement, and early warning_.
Under his watch, Kogi has witnessed coordinated operations between the Army, Navy, DSS, Police, and local Vigilante groups. The results are visible. From the successful rescue of kidnapped victims in Olowa, Dekina just two weeks ago, to the neutralization of notorious criminal “Batijo” in Kogi, and the support given to joint operations has moved from reactive policing to proactive security.
_“The peace we are beginning to enjoy in Kogi and across the country is not by accident. It is the product of deliberate policies, commitment and the political will of both President Tinubu and Governor Ododo,”_ Omodara told journalists recently.
What makes Omodara “versatile” is that his portfolio extends beyond guns and raids. He has become a key political strategist for the APC in Kogi West.
In Okunland, he has been convening stakeholders, chairmen, and appointees, urging them to “show their skills in mobilizing” ahead of 2027. His message is blunt and clear: _“It will no longer be business as usual. Any appointee who refuses to identify with this project will be penalized.”_
At a recent interactive session with APC leaders from Kabba-Bunu, Ijumu, Yagba East, Yagba West, and Mopa-Muro, Omodara stressed unity and grassroots engagement as the path to victory.
_“Time has come for all of us to work together. We will continue to have regular meetings for leaders, stakeholders and members to interact for the growth and progress of the party,”_ he said.
For many observers, this dual role — as both security adviser and political unifier — is why Governor Ododo trusts him. He understands that in Kogi, security and politics are often two sides of the same coin.
Unlike advisers who operate only from Lokoja, Omodara is often on the road. He believes intelligence comes from the people. Hence the house-to-house engagements, meetings with traditional rulers, youth leaders, and religious leaders.
Colleagues describe Omodara as firm but accessible. He gives credit where it is due — to President Bola Tinubu for economic and security reforms, and to Governor Ododo for providing “pragmatic leadership” at the state level.
_“Just as kudos are given to the President, so also should they be given to the Governor,”_ he insists. It is this loyalty, combined with results, that has earned him respect across party and security lines.
Security experts note that Kogi’s relative stability compared to some neighboring states is no accident. It is the product of coordination, intelligence sharing, and a state government that listens to its security adviser.
As the 2027 elections approach, Omodara’s role is expected to grow. He has already signaled that APC in Kogi West will mobilize massively for the re-election of both President Tinubu and Governor Ododo.
But beyond politics, his immediate task remains: sustaining the peace. With banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes still a threat in the North Central, Kogi cannot afford to relax.
For Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd), the mission is clear. Secure the state, unite the party, and serve the people.
In doing all three at once, he has redefined what it means to be a State Security Adviser in 21st century Nigeria — not just a security chief, but a versatile leader.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER 28TH JULY)
