Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Lokoja — In a decisive move to address rising insecurity in Kogi State, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has ordered the demolition of a notorious criminal hideout in the Sambel area of Idoji, Okene Local Government Area, following credible intelligence linking the site to persistent criminal activity across the region.
Security agencies, acting on the governor’s directive, moved into the community on Thursday, January 15, 2026, and began demolishing structures identified as bases for criminal gangs. The operation targeted properties located at Government Quarters Idoji — including plots GP. 23A, 23B, 24A and 24B — which had been fraudulently acquired and converted into operational hideouts for suspected kidnappers, armed robbers and other violent elements terrorising residents and commuters in Okene and neighbouring areas.
The demolition was carried out shortly after the Kogi State Government issued a broader statement invalidating all fraudulently and illegally acquired properties across the state, declaring them null, void and without legal effect. The government warned that any property found to be facilitating criminal activity would be reclaimed by the state and those responsible prosecuted under the law.
Governor Ododo, speaking during the demolition exercise, reiterated his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on criminality, stressing that the protections of lives and livelihoods remain his foremost responsibility. He explained that intelligence and surveillance had revealed the demolished properties were being used not only as hideouts but also as bases from which crimes were planned and executed, posing serious threats to local security and public peace.
“This is in the best interest of our people,” the governor declared, emphasising that his administration will continue proactive measures to curb criminality and deny criminals safe havens anywhere in the state. “Any house being used to harbour criminals will go down,” he warned, underscoring that negotiations with criminal elements are not an option for his government.
In remarks addressing the demolition, Governor Ododo also expressed appreciation for the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, saying federal and state cooperation is vital in strengthening security frameworks and protecting citizens from criminal networks.
Residents of Idoji, while acknowledging concerns about the destruction of property, largely welcomed the governor’s intervention, describing the action as a bold and timely response to longstanding insecurity in the area. Local voices said that the demolished structure had long been associated with hoodlums and that its removal has already produced a palpable sense of relief and confidence among community members and commuters.
The demolition is part of a wider security strategy by the Kogi State Government to dismantle criminal infrastructure and restore peace across flashpoints in the state. Authorities have pledged continued surveillance and coordinated operations with security agencies to drive out criminal elements and enhance safety for residents and travellers alike.
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