Gov Ododo Warns Transport Workers Against Collaborating With Kidnappers, Arms Couriers

Kogi State governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has warned members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) against allowing their commercial vehicles to be used to transport firearms, facilitate kidnapping or engage in other criminal activities.

The governor declared that his administration would deal decisively with any transport worker found culpable in criminal activities, stressing that the government would not tolerate any form of collaboration with criminals.

Ododo gave the warning at the weekend when he received the leadership and members of the NURTW, Kogi State Council, led by its state chairman, Alhaji Yahaya Ibrahim, during a courtesy visit to Government House, Lokoja.

He described transport workers as strategic partners in the state’s development and security, noting that their profession plays a critical role in connecting communities, facilitating economic activity, and ensuring the movement of people and goods.

The governor commended the union for its support and cooperation with his administration, particularly its contributions to collective efforts to tackle insecurity and restore public confidence on the state’s highways.

He said his administration recognised and appreciated the contributions of transport workers, adding that government could not achieve its developmental objectives without the cooperation of critical stakeholders such as the NURTW.

“Kogi State is our state. We have no other state.

These criminals came because of our resources. They want to push our farmers away from their farmlands and prevent our drivers from travelling freely on our roads. We have resolved to continue to deal with them.

“I am not afraid of any criminal. If you are caught as a criminal, we will deal with you decisively,” the governor declared.

Responding to requests presented by the union, Ododo assured its leadership that the state government would give favourable consideration to the issues raised, while reiterating his administration’s commitment to the welfare of transport workers and the security of residents.

He urged members of the union to remain law-abiding, vigilant and cooperative with security agencies, warning them against providing any form of assistance or cover for individuals involved in kidnapping, arms trafficking and other criminal activities.