Ododo distributes safety gadgets to 1,050 hunters in Kogi

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

Ododo, speaking at the event, expressed the commitment of his administration to act decisively against anyone who intends to trouble the people of Kogi State, adding that Kogi State will never become a breeding ground for criminals, stressing that all must be ready to eliminate the enemies of Kogi State.

He ordered the hunters to maintain professionalism and help other security agencies in ridding the state of crimes.

He said: “My administration has adopted a kinetic and non-kinetic approach to ensure the safety of our people. Kogites, we must protect ourselves. If we do not protect ourselves, nobody will. Kogi State is not a free trade zone for criminals.

“When you see them, deal with them firmly. Criminals must be wiped out from our land. When you come with a criminal mind, we are always ready to throw you out. Once again, when you see criminals, deal with them.”

Earlier in his speech, Bertrand Onuoha, the Kogi State Commissioner of Police, 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 this is in line with 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.”

He advised members of the hunters association and law enforcers to always work with other security agencies to nip criminals in the bud in Kogi State and also to always do everything in their power to protect law-abiding citizens of the state.