The Kogi State Government has reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring that the state remains secure and will not succumb to criminal activities.
Speaking to journalists in Lokoja on Friday, Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, highlighted Governor Ahmed Ododo’s administration’s “concrete, strategic steps” to tackle insecurity, particularly in hotspot areas like Yagba West.
“We are managing the fine line between urgency and the need to tread softly to avoid compounding the situation,” Fanwo said, adding that the government is in control of the situation.
Following reports of alleged threats to churches in Yagba East, the Commissioner confirmed investigations are underway under direct instructions from the Governor. He further noted ongoing advanced collaborations with national security agencies aimed at eliminating all threats within the state.
Fanwo praised local security groups such as the Okun hunters for their crucial role in providing community-based intelligence and supporting government interventions.
“These grassroots outfits are vital to our overall strategy, and His Excellency has ordered deeper community push-back against insecurity,” he stated.
While acknowledging the identification of criminal hideouts, Fanwo emphasized that security operations are being carefully coordinated to prevent harm, especially to kidnapping victims held by suspects.
He also warned the media against sensationalising security issues, urging responsible reporting. “This is not a media war. We are not going to be talking too much. The media must not become image makers for criminals,” he said.
The Commissioner expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his support, particularly through the Office of the National Security Adviser, which has provided critical assets such as helicopters to assist Kogi’s security operations.
Fanwo concluded by calling on residents to collaborate with security agencies by providing credible intelligence. “It’s a collective fight, and we’re confident of victory,” he said.
