Governor Ododo Meets LG Chairmen, Seeks Presidential Intervention on Security Challenges
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, on Tuesday met with the 21 local government chairmen to review the security situation across the state, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to strengthening ongoing operations and securing federal support.
Speaking after the closed-door meeting held at the Government House, Lokoja, the Governor said the session was part of the state’s periodic security briefing aimed at assessing emerging threats and refining responses. He noted that the unique geography of Kogi State bordering ten states including the Federal Capital Territory and its abundance of mineral deposits have contributed to recurring criminal activities.
Ododo explained that while ground security operations have been effective, the terrain exposes security personnel, local hunters, and vigilante groups to ambushes. He said this has made it necessary to seek federal assistance, especially aerial support.
“We’ve resolved that it is important I take our message to Mr. President. Our security agencies are doing excellently well, but with our location and the nature of our forests, we can easily be ambushed. That’s why we sometimes lose officers, hunters, and vigilante members. At this point, we need air support,” he said.
The Governor confirmed that he had already written to the Chief of Air Staff and held initial discussions, but emphasized that presidential intervention is required to fast-track the deployment of air assets to the state.
Ododo also dismissed recent allegations circulating on social media, saying his administration is focused on delivering results rather than responding to “noise.”
“People ask why I don’t respond to those making allegations. I cannot engage in noise-making. We have a job. Mr. President gave me a mandate to serve my people and brief him on our progress, not to join online arguments,” he stated.
He commended the local government chairmen for their efforts, adding that as the state prepares for the forthcoming local government elections, stakeholders are united in supporting a peaceful and credible process.
The Chairman of Yagba West LGA who doubles as the Kogi ALGON Chairman, Hon. Tosin Olokun, who also addressed journalists, applauded the Governor’s swift response to security incidents, citing the recent case in Ejiba where aerial surveillance was deployed within minutes of a distress report.
Olokun stressed the need for federal government intervention, explaining that some challenges confronting the councils are beyond the state’s capacity due to the vast forests, difficult terrain, and expansive landmass.
“Our governor is doing his best, but we still need help from the federal government. There are things beyond the powers of the state, and we are appealing for urgent support,” he said.
He also urged the public and the media to verify information before sharing, noting that many incidents posted online are either exaggerated or unrelated to Kogi State.
“One life matters to us. Even if one person is kidnapped, it is serious to us. That’s why we don’t engage in social media arguments, our priority is the safety of our people,” Olokun added.
The meeting ended with a renewed commitment from the state government and the 21 local government chairmen to intensify collaboration as security operations continue across Kogi State.
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