🛑 Kogi Governor Warns of Rising Insecurity from the North
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has sounded an alarm over the spillover of northern insecurity into parts of his state, particularly in border communities like Yagba West.
According to a report by Punch Newspaper, the governor revealed that intelligence reports have linked rising threats in Kogi to displaced criminal elements fleeing military operations in the North East and North West regions of Nigeria.
🗣️ “Insecurity Is Migrating South”
Speaking through the state’s Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, the governor stressed that the recent rise in kidnappings and attacks in Kogi’s western communities is not homegrown but imported due to regional military pressure on insurgents and bandits.
“What we are experiencing is a spillover effect due to the push against criminals in other northern states. These displaced elements are now attempting to regroup in border communities of Kogi,”
— Gov. Ododo via Punch NG
🛡️ Kogi’s Strategy: Response Without Panic
Governor Ododo emphasized a calm but strategic response to avoid panic:
- Security synergy: Local vigilantes, hunters, and law enforcement agencies are being reactivated and supported to strengthen community security.
- Intelligence-led action: The state is prioritizing data collection and internal profiling of migrants to identify suspicious individuals.
- Public communication control: He cautioned political actors and the media not to sensationalize security matters, which could incite fear or embolden criminals.
“Security issues should not be politicized. We must unite to protect our communities instead of spreading fear,”
— Ododo via Channels TV
📍 Why Kogi Matters in Nigeria’s Security Landscape
Kogi is a gateway state between Nigeria’s North and South, linking major highways and trade routes. As such, any security breach in Kogi could have nationwide ripple effects.
This new wave of insecurity from the northwestern and northeastern fronts presents a direct threat to peace in the North Central region.
“With its geographical position, if Kogi falls vulnerable, then both northern and southern Nigeria will face higher risks,”
— Security Analyst Ayo Akintola via Daily Trust
🧠Community Policing: The Frontline Defense
Governor Ododo’s plan puts community policing at the heart of the state’s response:
- All new settlers in affected communities are now profiled and monitored.
- Local security teams (hunters and vigilantes) are being mobilized with logistics support.
- Community engagement programs are underway to increase trust and reporting of threats.
âś… Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for the Middle Belt
Northern insecurity is no longer a localized problem—it’s now a regional crisis. Kogi State’s leadership is taking measured steps, but sustained federal backing, coordinated intelligence, and interstate collaboration will be crucial to halt this creeping threat.
The success of these efforts in Kogi may become a blueprint for other states on the frontlines of Nigeria’s complex security challenge.