Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State has declared that his administration will not engage in negotiations with criminal elements, insisting that they will be decisively defeated.
Speaking at the Kogi State Security Summit and Fundraising in Abuja, the governor emphasised that safeguarding lives and property remains his government’s top priority.
“Let me be clear, this administration will not negotiate with criminals. I was not elected to pamper the enemies of our peace.
“Those who disturb our peace will not enjoy peace. We will confront them, we will crush them, and we will defeat them.”
Ododo noted that security is fundamental to development, warning that economic growth and investment cannot thrive without a stable environment. He added that Kogi’s central location in Nigeria, while beneficial for commerce, also exposes it to security threats due to constant movement across the state.
“Kogi occupies a unique central position, which is beneficial for commerce but also exposes us to infiltration by criminal elements due to the constant movement of people and goods.”
The governor disclosed that his administration has strengthened the state’s security framework through the provision of operational vehicles, deployment of advanced communication and surveillance systems, and acquisition of drones to boost intelligence gathering. He said the measures are already yielding results, with increased calm in several areas and disruption of criminal activities.
He explained that the restructuring of the Kogi State Security Trust Fund is designed to create a transparent platform for individuals and organisations to support security initiatives, urging investors and the business community to contribute.
“Security is the backbone of economic success. By supporting our initiatives, you are not only protecting your investments but also securing the future of our state and country.”
Highlighting the state’s strategic importance, Ododo warned that instability in Kogi could have wider implications for the Federal Capital Territory.
“If there is no peace in Kogi, it will affect Abuja. We must not allow that to happen.”
Also speaking, Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by the Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Ahmadu, said President Bola Tinubu is prioritising security reforms, stressing that development cannot occur without peace and stability.
“We are strengthening operational capacity, supporting inter-agency coordination, improving intelligence, and investing in the conditions that make peace sustainable.”
He called for proactive approaches to security challenges.
“A serious nation does not wait for danger to mature before it begins to think. It reads the weather before the storm and studies the fault lines before they crack.”
Similarly, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum stressed that addressing insecurity requires sustained funding, modern technology, and attention to socio-economic factors.
“The kinetic measures alone will not end the insurgency. We need modern equipment—artificial intelligence, robotics, drones because it is difficult to fight an enemy you cannot see.”
He added that tackling poverty, infrastructure gaps, and illiteracy is essential to achieving lasting security.
