Kogi Governor Announces Major Arms Recovery as Joint Security Operations Tighten Noose on Criminal Networks

Kogi Governor Announces Major Arms Recovery as Joint Security Operations Tighten Noose on Criminal Networks

Lokoja, Nigeria — Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has announced the recovery of a significant cache of arms and ammunition from suspected criminal hideouts across parts of the state, marking what he described as a major breakthrough in ongoing efforts to restore peace and security. The disclosure was made on Monday during a media briefing in Lokoja, where the governor outlined the scope and significance of the joint security operation.

Governor Ododo explained that the success of the operation followed a week-long period of sustained intelligence gathering and surveillance carried out by security agencies working in close synergy with the Kogi State Government. According to him, the coordinated effort involved the military, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, and local security outfits, all acting on credible intelligence pointing to the existence of criminal enclaves within forested and hard-to-reach areas of the state.

He said the recovered items included assorted firearms, ammunition, and other military-grade equipment believed to have been used by armed bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal elements responsible for attacks on communities, highways, and farmlands. While specific figures and calibres were not immediately disclosed for operational reasons, the governor described the haul as “substantial” and capable of causing serious harm if left in the hands of non-state actors.

The governor noted that the operation targeted multiple locations identified as transit points and hideouts for criminal groups operating within Kogi and along its borders with neighbouring states. He stressed that the strategic position of Kogi as a gateway between the northern and southern parts of Nigeria makes it imperative for the state to maintain a strong security posture, as criminal activities in the area could have wider national implications.

Governor Ododo praised the professionalism and dedication of the security personnel involved, commending their patience during the intelligence-gathering phase and their precision during the execution of the raids. He said the operation was conducted with minimal disruption to law-abiding residents and without casualties among security operatives, describing this as evidence of improved coordination and planning.

He further assured residents that the recovered arms would be thoroughly examined to trace their sources and supply routes, adding that investigations were ongoing to identify and apprehend those behind the stockpiling of weapons. According to him, the state government is particularly interested in uncovering the networks that facilitate the movement of arms across state lines and into the hands of criminal groups.

The governor reiterated his administration’s zero-tolerance stance toward insecurity, declaring that Kogi would not serve as a safe haven for criminals fleeing pressure from security forces in other parts of the country. He warned that the government would continue to deploy all lawful means to protect lives, property, and critical infrastructure, including sustained collaboration with federal security agencies.

Addressing concerns about rising incidents of kidnapping and armed robbery in some parts of the state, Governor Ododo said the latest operation was part of a broader security strategy that combines intelligence-led policing, community engagement, and rapid response. He disclosed that traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents have been encouraged to share timely information with security agencies, noting that community cooperation played a key role in the recent success.

He also revealed that the state government has been investing in logistics and welfare support for security agencies, including patrol vehicles, communication equipment, and improved accommodation, to enhance their operational effectiveness. According to him, security is a collective responsibility, and the government remains committed to providing the necessary support to those on the frontlines.

Reacting to the development, residents in Lokoja and other parts of the state expressed cautious optimism, describing the arms recovery as a reassuring sign that the government is taking decisive steps to confront criminality. Some community leaders, however, urged the authorities to sustain the momentum and ensure that arrests and prosecutions follow, warning that arms seizures alone may not be sufficient without dismantling the criminal networks behind them.

Security analysts have also pointed out that intelligence-driven operations such as this represent a shift from reactive to preventive security measures, which they say is crucial in addressing Nigeria’s complex security challenges. They argue that denying criminals access to weapons is a critical step toward reducing violent crimes and restoring public confidence.

Governor Ododo concluded by calling on citizens to remain vigilant and supportive of security agencies, assuring them that the state government would continue to provide regular updates on security matters. He emphasized that while challenges remain, the latest operation demonstrates that sustained collaboration, credible intelligence, and political will can yield tangible results in the fight against insecurity.

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