Kogi State Governor Inaugurates FOB, Ensures Lasting Peace in Border Communities
The Chief Servant of Kogi State, His Excellency Ahmed Usman Ododo, has commended the gallant troops of the Nigerian Army, Navy, Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Vigilantes, and other security agencies for their pivotal role in restoring peace to the Bagana community and its surrounding areas in Omala Local Government Area. This was after the residents were displaced from their ancestral homes due to the violent clashes between Agatu people and suspected herdsmen from Benue State.
Speaking during his visit to the newly established Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Bagana on Monday, Governor Ododo expressed his administration’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all Kogi residents. He noted that the establishment of the FOB has significantly improved security in the area, and he was pleased to witness firsthand the progress made in restoring peace.
Governor Ododo recounted his previous visit to Bagana, where he was deeply disturbed by the level of destruction caused by the crisis. He vowed that his administration would not rest until all criminal elements are eradicated from the state. He emphasized that the security situation in Bagana and its surroundings has improved drastically since the FOB’s establishment and that this visit was part of his ongoing effort to assess the situation and ensure that peace is sustained.
“We are here today to appreciate the work that you, our gallant troops, have done. You are the reason why the people of Kogi State are now able to sleep peacefully at night. My presence here today demonstrates my commitment to serve my people and to ensure their lives and livelihoods are secure,” Governor Ododo remarked. “The last time I was here, I saw the rising insecurity in the community, and after meeting with the people, I promised that all necessary measures would be taken, including the establishment of this Forward Operating Base, to ensure the safety of lives and property.”
The governor also extended his gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support in facilitating the establishment of the FOB in Bagana, acknowledging that the improved security situation is a testament to the administration’s dedication to a peaceful, united, and progressive Kogi State.
“I was elected to protect the lives of my people, and that is why I am here today with our brave soldiers to get firsthand information about the progress made. I commend all the security agencies for their collaborative efforts in restoring peace to this community,” Governor Ododo continued. “When I last visited, I left with a heavy heart. But today, we celebrate because peace has returned to the people of Bagana. I want you all to know that the Government of Kogi State stands with you, and we will continue to support the success of your operations in Omala Local Government.”
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This visit marked Governor Ododo’s second trip to Bagana since taking office, and he pledged to continue providing logistical support to ensure the success of the troops’ mission. Residents of Bagana, including Apostle Peace Peter Simion, expressed their deep appreciation for the governor’s decisive actions in restoring peace. “We are incredibly grateful to His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his commitment and actions in ensuring the deployment of military forces to Omala LGA. This has been key in bringing stability back to our community,” said Simion.
Bagana, an agrarian community located near the borders of Nasarawa and Benue States, has long been affected by spillover violence from neighboring regions. The governor encouraged the people of Omala Local Government to return to their ancestral homes and urged them to cooperate fully with security agencies to ensure lasting peace in the region.
The longstanding issue of herders-farmers clashes, coupled with the tragic loss of innocent lives, has been a persistent problem in parts of Omala and Dekina Local Government Areas of Kogi State. This conflict, which has continued for decades, has defied the efforts of previous administrations to bring about a permanent solution. The situation reached a devastating climax in 2014, when the peaceful Bagana community was attacked by suspected herders, resulting in the loss of lives, homes, and livestock, plunging the community into deep sorrow.
However, with the establishment of the Forward Operating Base, Governor Ododo who embarked on the journey as early as 5am on Monday assured the people that the crisis in the area has come to an end. “This FOB marks the end of the crisis in Bagana and its surrounding communities. We are committed to ensuring that peace reigns in Omala Local Government, and no one will be allowed to disrupt the harmony and progress we are building,” he concluded.
