According to a report by Punch on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, the Governor of Kogi State, Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity, stating that his government will not engage in negotiations with criminal elements.
He made this position known on Tuesday while speaking at the Kogi State Security Summit and Fundraising event held in Abuja.
The governor emphasised that maintaining peace and order remains a central priority of his administration, noting that any individual or group responsible for disrupting public safety would be firmly confronted through lawful security measures.
During the event, Ododo explained that the protection of lives and property is the primary responsibility of any government, and his administration is focused on fulfilling that duty across all parts of the state.
He highlighted the importance of security as a foundation for governance, stating that without a stable environment, it becomes difficult to achieve progress in other sectors.
According to him, the presence of insecurity not only threatens the well-being of residents but also discourages economic activities, investment, and development initiatives that depend on a peaceful atmosphere.
The governor also drew attention to the geographical and strategic position of Kogi State within Nigeria.
Located at a point that connects the northern and southern regions of the country, the state serves as a major transit route for people and goods.
While this position offers economic opportunities, it also presents security challenges, as criminal elements may attempt to exploit the movement across the state.
Ododo noted that this reality requires a proactive and well-coordinated security approach to prevent the infiltration of criminal activities and to ensure that the state remains safe for residents and travellers.
In outlining steps taken by his administration, the governor stated that efforts have been made to strengthen the state’s security architecture through the provision of operational resources to security agencies.
These include the supply of vehicles to enhance mobility, as well as the deployment of modern communication and surveillance systems designed to improve coordination among security personnel.
He also mentioned the acquisition of drones to support intelligence gathering and monitoring activities, particularly in areas that are difficult to access through conventional means.
According to him, these interventions are already contributing to improved calm in several communities, while also helping to disrupt criminal networks operating within the state.
Ododo further explained that the restructuring of the Kogi State Security Trust Fund is part of a broader strategy to enhance funding and transparency in security-related initiatives.
The fund, as he described, is intended to serve as a platform through which individuals, corporate organisations, and institutions can contribute resources toward strengthening security efforts.
He encouraged members of the business community and other stakeholders to support the initiative, noting that collective participation is essential for sustaining long-term security improvements.
The restructuring, he said, aims to ensure that contributions are effectively managed and directed toward areas where they are most needed.
The governor also highlighted the wider implications of security in Kogi State for national stability.
He pointed out that the state’s proximity to the Federal Capital Territory makes it an important buffer in maintaining security within the region.
According to him, any breakdown of law and order in Kogi could have consequences beyond its borders, potentially affecting nearby areas, including Abuja.
This, he said, underscores the need for sustained vigilance and continuous investment in security infrastructure to prevent threats from escalating or spreading to other parts of the country.
He said, “If there is no peace in Kogi, it will affect Abuja. We must not allow that to happen.”…..See More
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