By Babajide Obafemi.
At a time when insecurity is spiking across the nation. At a time when even foreign leaders, including the President of the United States, have expressed concern over violent attacks in parts of Nigeria. These are moments when we should be interrogating the issues calmly, studying the implications, and seeking lasting solutions instead of turning the matter into political football for the sake of power play. After all, insecurity does not check your religion, ethnicity, or party card before striking. We are all exposed to its consequences.
At a time when neighbouring states around Kogi are battling severe cases of banditry and kidnapping, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has refused to shiver or retreat. He has instead owned the moment, stepped forward, and chosen to confront this hydra-headed monster head on.
Recognising Kogi’s unique geography, a state that borders many others and naturally becomes a transit or escape route for criminal elements, the governor has been deliberate and strategic. Understanding that those who commit crimes elsewhere often attempt to take cover within Kogi’s vast terrains, he has refused to leave any gap unattended, especially in the area of intelligence gathering.
Mr Governor swung into action early, securing credible intel on the movement and activities of those who coordinate layers of banditry, kidnapping, and insurgency. Rather than wait for these elements to settle, he has taken a firm stance to flush them out before they take root.
Under his watch, security agencies acting on directives from the governor recently carried out major operations that led to the demolition of several bandits’ camps in the Aherin Bunu community of Kabba Bunu Local Government Area. Two wounded bandits and two fake doctors, allegedly treating them, were arrested. The camps, including makeshift clinics and farmlands used by bandits, were destroyed. Houses used for harbouring criminals were also demolished. This was not for show; it was decisive action.
Earlier in the year, a coordinated crackdown in the Bunu Forest area resulted in the arrest of 26 suspected kidnappers and several locals who provided logistical support such as food, water, and shelter to bandits.
The administration also moved to strengthen grassroots security architecture by re-engineering the state’s vigilante service and empowering local hunters. During a meeting with local government chairmen, vigilante members, and traditional security forces, the governor called for deeper collaboration among security agencies, community stakeholders, and grassroots operatives.
Beyond enforcement, the governor has emphasised that education is a weapon in the fight against terror. In a recent speech, he reiterated his administration’s commitment to leveraging education as a foundational tool against terrorism and banditry.
More recently, at a peace and security council meeting of state stakeholders, the governor unveiled a bold security blueprint. Among the measures: immediate crackdown on illegal mining and banditry to cut off criminal groups from financial lifelines; increased involvement of local government chairmen in regular security meetings; strengthened responsibility for traditional and religious leaders in monitoring land use; intensified community sensitisation campaigns; and strict demolition orders for any house harbouring criminals.
This is reassuring. This is proactive leadership. This is what responsive governance looks like.
Governor Ododo is not one of those leaders who merely speak to the gallery. He walks and works his talk. His firmness, calmness under pressure, and readiness to confront insecurity with both intelligence and strength deserve acknowledgment.
Kudos.
– Babajide Obafemi is the Senior Special Assistant on Community Engagement (West) to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.
