Air Raids Neutralise Bandits, Destroy Camps, As Kogi Govt Intensifies Collaboration With Military

The Kogi State Government has announced the successful execution of coordinated security operations involving air raids and ground assaults in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, which neutralised bandits in large numbers and destroyed their camps, paving the way for improved peace and security in the area.

In a statement issued by the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, the government disclosed that the air raids dealt significant blows to criminal groups, with ground troops supporting the aerial offensive and neutralising fleeing bandits during the operation.

The operation was coordinated by joint forces comprising the military, the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS), working in collaboration with the Kogi State Government.

The government expressed optimism that the successful operation would usher in greater peace and stability in Yagba West and its surrounding communities, as the destruction of criminal camps and the neutralisation of bandits would significantly weaken the capacity of criminal elements to threaten residents and disrupt lawful activities.

It described the operation as a major step towards the clearance of criminal elements and their camps in the state, reaffirming its determination to sustain the pressure on bandits and other criminal groups until lasting peace is secured.

Fanwo stated that the latest success was part of a sustained and coordinated security campaign by the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, which has recorded a series of operational successes in recent months, leading to the clearance of criminal hideouts and the disruption of criminal networks.

He noted that the sustained operations had contributed to considerable improvements in peace and security across the state, expressing confidence that the latest offensive in Yagba West would further strengthen security and enable residents to go about their lawful activities with greater confidence.

According to the Commissioner, the government remains committed to strengthening its collaboration with the military and other security agencies, recognising the importance of coordinated intelligence, joint operations and sustained field engagement in tackling security threats.

He commended the joint forces for their professionalism, bravery and commitment to working with the state government to safeguard Kogi, which occupies a strategic position at the centre of Nigeria.

Fanwo added that the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo would continue to make significant investments in the security of the people, reiterating the Governor’s determination to spare no resources in ensuring that lives and property are protected.

He stressed that the high cost of security operations would not deter the Kogi State Government from fulfilling its responsibility to protect the lives and property of the people. According to him, Governor Ododo remains committed to providing the resources required to support security agencies and sustain ongoing operations, emphasising that the safety of citizens remains a priority for the administration.

He added that the government would continue to invest in the necessary equipment, logistics and operational support to ensure that criminal elements are denied the opportunity to threaten the peace and security of Kogi State.

The Commissioner said the government would sustain its support for security agencies and strengthen ongoing collaborations to consolidate the gains recorded, prevent criminal elements from regrouping and ensure lasting peace across the state.

He urged residents, particularly those in Yagba West and neighbouring communities, to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible and timely information that could assist ongoing operations. He stressed that community participation remains essential to sustaining peace and security.

He reiterated the Ododo administration’s resolve to sustain the coordinated security campaign until criminal elements are denied safe havens and residents across the state can pursue their daily activities without fear.

He added that Ododo remains deeply grateful to President Tinubu for his exceptional commitment to ensuring security in Kogi State through decisive, visionary and unwavering support. He praised President Tinubu as a steadfast and patriotic leader whose strategic direction, prompt backing and strong partnership with the state have significantly strengthened the capacity of security agencies to confront threats and protect citizens.

Fanwo further commended President Tinubu for demonstrating remarkable leadership, courage and dedication to the safety of Nigerians, noting that his administration’s sustained support has been instrumental in enabling the successful operations recorded in Kogi. He said the President’s commendable intervention and continued encouragement have reinforced the confidence of the state government, security agencies and residents in the collective effort to secure the state.

He described Tinubu’s support as invaluable and worthy of the highest commendation, stressing that the President’s determination to restore peace, protect lives and preserve national stability has continued to inspire stronger collaboration among the Federal Government, Kogi State Government and security agencies.