Bello pledges priority on security as Army launches exercise “Ayem Akpatuma ll” in Kogi »

Kogi Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello on Friday said his administration would continue to accord priority to the operations of security agents that could further assist in the effective tackle of security challenges in the state.

Governor Bello made the commitment during the launch of exercise ‘Ayem Akpatuma II” at the Central Senatorial District of the state.

According to the Governor, Ayem Akpatuma ll was the Army’s response to the resurfaced cases of kidnappings, arm banditry among others in some parts of the state.

“With the resurface of this ugly act of insecurity in some parts of Kogi, the Army decided to help the state again. We can’t thank the Army enough for the cordial relationship. We will continue to give our maximum support to ensure a lasting impact of the exercise.

“The report I’m having since the establishment of this exercise is that farmers are more at peace. The first phase recorded tremendous success as records of bandits, kidnapping and herders/farmers clashes were brought under control,” he added.

Governor Bello while commending the Nigerian and its sister agencies in the state, he noted that the efficient coordination of the exercise across the country was only a reflection of the “excellence the Nigeria Army is known for.”

He made mention of his administration’s huge investment and various efforts put in place to combat crime and criminality since assumption of office in 2016 and how the efforts payed off by changing the Kogi narrative of being known for crime and nefarious acts.

The Commander, Command Army Record, Major General Ogunkale who said that the second phase of the exercise came on the need to consolidate on the first exercise added that the establishment of the Ayem Akpatuma camp along Okene road, and the patrols have improved general security and stemmed cases of kidnapping in the area.

He advised criminal elements in the state to desist from their criminal acts, while calling for all hands to be on deck to ensure the peace and safety of the people before, during and after the gubernatorial election scheduled to hold in two weeks.

The Governor and his team who were thereafter conducted round the camp for inspection, briefed on the various workings of the troops, later observed their jumat service at the camp, before departure.