Governor Ododo equips 1,050 Kogi hunters with safety gadgets

Kogi Governor Ahmed Ododo has equipped newly recruited 1,050 hunters with gadgets and security materials to improve community policing.

Mr Ododo, who supervised the distribution of the gadgets on Thursday in Lokoja, enjoined the hunters to decisively deal with criminals and ensure the protection of lives and properties across the state.

The governor said the security of lives and property remains his paramount responsibility to the people of Kogi.

“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 CUSTECH students.

“Our belief in a people-first approach to security as a new strategy is a clear manifestation of our determination to recalibrate our security architecture,” he said.

He commended the Kogi National Assembly for the quick decision to employ 1,050 hunters to complement the traditional security agencies.

“We are at an advanced stage of work on providing life for hunters. We are also distributing gadgets and safety materials, such as level 4 bulletproof vests that protect against bullet attacks, as well as boots that will help hunters move through the forest without getting injured, and other materials.

“In the fight against terrorism, we must acknowledge that the battlefields have changed and technology has evolved.

“We are determined to fight at different levels and secure our land and people. Kogi will be one step ahead of the enemies of peace,” he said.

The Governor urged the hunters to demonstrate the highest level of responsibility and discipline in the discharge of their duties, expressing confidence in their abilities, discipline, patriotism and professionalism.

Mr Ododo said his administration was committed to combining kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to ensure safety.

“We create an environment that creates jobs for our teeming youth. We make education free to ensure that every child receives an education.

“However, we will pursue criminal elements with our wall of force. We will win,” the governor added.

He called on hunters to cooperate effectively with security agencies, free from any competition.

Mr. Ododo thanked President Bola Tinubu for allowing states to implement local solutions to curb the activities of criminals. He commended the National Security Adviser for his continued support in efforts to ensure that Kogi is safe for all.

He commended the heads of security agencies for adequately training the recruited hunters on the rules of combat, adding that the cooperation was the driving force behind the success of the security forces in Kogi.

In his speech, the Kogi Police Commissioner, Bertrand Onuoha, commended the governor for his foresight in protecting the lives and property of the people of the state.

(NAN)