Ododo hands out security gadgets to 1,050 newly recruited local hunters

Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo on Thursday distributed safety gadgets to 1,050 hunters in a bid to curb crime and criminality in the state.

In his speech at the event, Governor Ododo stressed that his administration was committed to taking decisive action against anyone who intends to disturb the people of Kogi State.

The governor disclosed that Kogi State would never become a breeding ground for criminals, stressing that everyone must be ready to act to eliminate enemies of the state.

“We are all Kogites, we have to protect ourselves. Kogi is not a free trade zone for criminals; you have the support of the government to protect the land, when you see them, deal with them firmly.

“We are not new to this game; criminals must be wiped out of our country.

“We are good people and God knows why he created us. Kogi State is blessed with many mineral deposits. If you want to trade with us, we are ready to trade.

“But if you come with criminal intent, we are ready to catch you and deal with you decisively,” Ododo said.

The Governor stressed that the security of lives and property remains his paramount duty to the great people of Kogi State.

He added: “Our determination to develop a grassroots approach to security and engage our hunters was strengthened by their courageous and professional conduct during our rescue operations which led to the release of 29 of the 31 abducted students from CUSTECH.

“Our belief in a people-first approach to security as the new strategy is a clear demonstration of our determination to recalibrate our security architecture.

“While we are desperate and determined to ensure safety, in line with our commitment to a lawful approach and due process, we have forwarded the request to the Kogi State Assembly.”

Earlier in his speech, the Kogi State Commissioner of Police, Bertrand Onuoha, disclosed that the items being distributed are to help ordinary security operatives combat security lapses.

While commending the Governor for his foresight in securing lives and property, the Commissioner said: “We all know the topography of Kogi State which creates security challenges. All that we see is in line with the guidelines of the Inspector General of Police on community policing.

“If all these security agencies are set up without synergy, not much can be achieved. I am using this medium to call for integration of all security agencies in the state. I have directed the area commanders to always use rangers and hunters. When we harmonize, our services will be more interesting.”

Onuoha advised members of the hunters association and rangers to always cooperate with other security agencies to curb criminals in Kogi State.

He urged them to always do everything in their power to protect law-abiding citizens in the state.