*Kabba-Bunu (Kogi), June 17, 2025*
In a decisive move to combat rising insecurity, the Kogi State government, in collaboration with various security agencies, has apprehended 26 individuals suspected of involvement in kidnapping and related activities. This operation took place in the Bunu Forest area of Kabba-Bunu Local Government.
Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd), the State Security Adviser, announced the arrests during a press briefing held on Tuesday in Odo-Ape, Kabba-Bunu. He emphasized that this operation, which spanned two weeks, is part of the government’s broader strategy to address the escalating threat of insecurity in the region.
Omodara revealed that among those arrested are local residents who have been providing logistical support to criminal elements, including food, beverages, and other essential supplies. “This operation targets not only the kidnappers operating in the forest but also the local accomplices who facilitate their activities,” he stated.
The investigation was prompted by the recent kidnapping of retired Major Joe Ajayi, which uncovered the involvement of certain community members in these criminal enterprises. “The suspects are currently assisting security agencies in uncovering the underlying causes of the increasing incidents of kidnapping in the area,” Omodara added.
“This operation demonstrates the effectiveness of our efforts to restore safety and security in our forests. We will not tolerate criminal activities in Kogi State; we are committed to pursuing those who threaten our peace,” he asserted.
The Kogi government is taking a firm stance against crime, urging local communities to adopt proactive measures in their defense. Omodara encouraged residents to engage in community vigilance and intelligence gathering, noting that local vigilantes are permitted to carry certain levels of arms to enhance their protective capabilities.
“We call upon our communities to strengthen their first line of defense. It is crucial that we work together
The Kogi State Government is taking the issue of security very seriously, which is why we are urging communities to adopt a proactive stance as the first line of defense. Vigilantes are permitted to carry certain types of arms to help maintain safety.
We encourage communities to enhance their intelligence-gathering capabilities. Currently, some women are being exploited to purchase food, drinks, and other supplies, which are then delivered to local youths who are collaborating with bandits.
Our ongoing efforts to apprehend these criminals have led to the recent orchestrated protests by disgruntled elements from outside the state. However, the community has distanced itself from these protests, including those who were manipulated into participating.
Governor Ahmed Ododo is dedicated to restoring peace not only in Bunu land but across all communities in Kogi State.
In response to the rising tensions in neighboring Benue State, we have implemented proactive measures. For instance, we have established defense strategies along the borders of Olamaboro and Omala Local Government Areas to prevent the influx of criminals into our state, as stated by Omodara.
The Security Adviser emphasized that the government takes security matters very seriously and will continue to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to hold perpetrators accountable.
He highlighted the deployment of the Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) and other security agencies to combat the activities of kidnappers and bandits within the state.
Omodara reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring peace and security in Kogi State. He noted that Governor Ahmed Ododo’s efforts to address insecurity have yielded positive results, including the arrest of numerous criminal elements throughout the state.
Furthermore, the Kogi government has pledged to continue its collaboration with security agencies to eradicate banditry and kidnapping from the state’s forests and to bring offenders to justice.
He cautioned politicians, traditional leaders, and youth who are collaborating with kidnappers to cease their activities immediately.
