By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
June 10, 2026
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state, declaring that no part of Kogi will be surrendered to criminal elements under any guise.
The Governor gave the assurance during a peace and security assessment visit to the Egabada and Ekwuloko communities in the Odolu axis of Igalamela-Odolu Local Government Area, following recent security challenges that claimed innocent lives. He was represented by his Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu.
Addressing residents, Governor Ododo condemned the recent killings in the area, describing them as barbaric and unacceptable. He expressed heartfelt condolences to families who lost their loved ones and assured them that the perpetrators would be brought to justice.
The Governor’s visit followed growing concerns over the influx of migrant Fulani herders into Egabada, Akpatege, and Ekwuloko communities. Residents have consistently alleged that some of the herders carry sophisticated weapons, destroy farmlands, and engage in activities that threaten the peace and security of the area.
Tensions escalated recently following the gruesome killing of a young farmer, popularly known as Shehu, who was reportedly attacked near his farm. The incident sparked outrage among residents and renewed calls for urgent government intervention.
Moved by the need to restore confidence and prevent further escalation, Governor Ododo personally directed a high-powered delegation to the affected communities to assess the situation, sympathize with the bereaved families, and reassure residents of the government’s unwavering determination to secure the area.
The Governor disclosed that additional security personnel had been deployed to the communities to strengthen security operations and ensure the protection of lives and property. He urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible intelligence that would aid the identification and arrest of criminal elements.
According to him, criminal activities cannot thrive in any community without the support of collaborators from within. He therefore warned residents, particularly youths, against aiding or shielding criminals, stressing that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law.
Governor Ododo also directed security agencies to immediately arrest anyone found in possession of prohibited firearms, including AK-47 rifles, emphasizing that no individual should be allowed to move around with dangerous weapons under the pretext of cattle rearing.
“Kogi State remains a peaceful and hospitable home for all law-abiding citizens regardless of ethnicity, religion, or occupation. However, criminality in any form will not be tolerated,” the Governor stated.
He further cautioned politicians against exploiting security challenges and the loss of innocent lives for political advantage, warning that any attempt to politicize matters of public safety would attract appropriate sanctions.
Commending the youths of the affected communities for exercising restraint and choosing the path of peace despite provocation, Governor Ododo praised them for promptly drawing the government’s attention to the security concerns. He also lauded the Nigeria Police Force and the Naval Outpost in Idah for their efforts in maintaining law and order in the area.
As part of decisive measures aimed at restoring lasting peace, the Governor ordered the dissolution of the existing community leadership structure allegedly linked to the crisis and directed the immediate constitution of a new leadership framework.
He further instructed the Area Commander of the Nigeria Police Force in Idah and the Naval Outpost to conduct a thorough investigation into all allegations surrounding the crisis and ensure that anyone found culpable is prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Governor Ododo also charged traditional rulers to exercise caution in admitting new settlers into their domains, stressing the need for proper documentation and security screening. He advised intending settlers to follow established legal procedures and obtain approval from constituted authorities before taking up residence in any community.
Earlier, the Executive Chairman of Igalamela-Odolu Local Government Area, Hon. Barr. Cosmas Atabor, identified insecurity as one of the major challenges confronting the area, citing its vast agricultural landscape and proximity to neighboring states.
He alleged that some individuals, including certain traditional rulers, had facilitated the settlement of migrant herders in parts of the local government without due process, thereby contributing to the current security concerns.
Atabor appealed for sustained government intervention and expressed appreciation to Governor Ododo for his swift response and proactive measures aimed at strengthening security in the affected communities.
Also speaking, former member representing Igalamela-Odolu State Constituency, Hon. Friday Sani Makama, commended the Governor for his prompt intervention, noting that it had significantly helped in calming tensions and restoring confidence among residents. He called for a comprehensive investigation and prosecution of all individuals linked to activities undermining security in the area.
Community leaders, including Mr. Momoh Sani, the Onuh of Egabada; Chief Usman Ademu, the Onuh of Ekwuloko; Chief Simon Enechile; and Chief Isah Maha Usman, who spoke on behalf of bereaved families, appealed to the state government to sustain ongoing efforts aimed at restoring peace and security. They also called for increased security presence and decisive action against criminal elements operating within forests and surrounding communities.
In her remarks, the Deputy Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Comfort Nwuchiola Egwaba, urged residents to take collective responsibility for the security of their communities by exposing criminal elements in their midst. She also advised parents to properly guide their children and discourage them from engaging in unlawful activities.
