The Kogi State Government has announced a significant development in its fight against criminality, revealing that several armed bandits have initiated contact to negotiate and surrender their weapons.
Sustained Operations Force Bandits to the Table
This disclosure was made by the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd), during a media briefing in Lokoja on Friday, January 16, 2026. Omodara stated that the bandits' outreach is a direct result of relentless pressure from security forces.
He detailed that recent operations have included aerial bombardments on criminal hideouts and the demolition of houses used for illicit activities across various parts of the state. The security adviser emphasized that the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo is committed to a forceful approach, taking the fight to the criminals rather than initiating negotiations.
"Both the bandits and their local collaborators are currently feeling the full wrath of the law as the government and security operatives sustain an onslaught on them with no holds barred," Commander Omodara asserted.
Technology and Manpower Boost Security Efforts
A cornerstone of the state's strategy has been the strategic deployment of technology. Omodara credited technological assets with enabling security forces to outsmart criminals terrorizing local communities.
"One of the strengths of the state government is the use of technology, and plans are already in top gear to get more to take the fight directly to criminals in the bush," he explained. This tech push fulfills a pledge made by Governor Ododo during his inaugural address on January 27, 2024, to ensure the safety of lives and property.
To enhance operational mobility and efficiency, the government has provided additional resources to security agencies. These include:
- Hilux and Siena vehicles
- Motorcycles
- Logistical support for the Army, Police, and local vigilante groups
Furthermore, over three thousand vigilante officers have been formally recruited into the state workforce to bolster ongoing operations. The Joint Task Force (JTF) has also executed targeted attacks on bandit camps, neutralizing several perpetrators.
Legislative Action and Regional Standing
Looking ahead, the government is working on legislation to outlaw living in remote bush areas. The policy mandates that anyone residing in Kogi must live in officially recognized towns or settlements, a move aimed at disrupting criminal sanctuaries.
Omodara also addressed the influx of criminals from other regions, noting that some bandits have relocated to Kogi following military operations in the North. He confirmed the identification of local collaborators aiding these criminals.
Despite these challenges, the Security Adviser maintained that Kogi remains the safest state in the North Central region. He attributed this status to robust intelligence gathering and the political will demonstrated by both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Ododo.
This report follows a recent directive from President Tinubu ordering security agencies to hunt down terrorists responsible for an attack at the Kasuwan Daji market in neighboring Niger state.
