The Kogi State Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to combating insecurity.
The government also called on citizens, media stakeholders, and political actors to avoid spreading fear or politicizing the state’s security challenges.
The statement by the government was coming against the background of a recent surge in kidnappings and killings, particularly in the western Senatorial district of the state.
Recalled that the government and the security agencies had come under intense pressure to work in synergy to bring the situation under control.
The government, in the statement, however, assured that it is quietly but effectively recording progress in its fight against criminal elements, particularly kidnappers within the state.
In a statement made available to newsmen by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, in Lokoja on Tuesday, the government said the gains recorded so far were not coincidental.
According to the statement, “They result from well-planned strategies and deep institutional engagements aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of every Kogite.
”While sympathising with families affected by recent attacks, the government stressed that such incidents should not be used to spread misinformation or panic. Misinformation and alarmist narratives only embolden criminals and demoralise communities. We call on opinion leaders and the media to work with us, not against us.”
The government also condemned what it described as “the politicization of insecurity by certain desperate politicians,” warning that such behaviour undermines the collective fight against crime.
“Those who brought medicines whose side effects are worse than the ailments should not raise frivolous alarms when the right medicines are administered,” the statement noted.
According to credible intelligence, the rise in security threats in parts of Kogi is linked to regional shifts, especially as intensified security operations in the North East and North West have forced criminal elements to migrate toward the North Central, including Kogi State.
Despite the challenges, the government emphasised its efforts in deploying advanced security infrastructure, strengthening intelligence gathering, and fostering community engagement.
“Our duty is not to spread fear but to inspire hope. And we are not just speaking hope, we are delivering it through action”, it said.
The statement added that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo remains fully committed to prioritising security without politicising it. “We are taking responsibility, not shifting blame,” the Commissioner said, urging politicians to focus on performance rather than panic.
He urged politicians to focus on performance as a tool for re-election rather than raising panic, saying performers do not fear re-election.
The government appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, Service chiefs, and local security outfits like the Vigilante Service and Hunters Group for their unwavering support.
The statement ended with a call for unity: “Let us not propagate propaganda for criminals. Let us work together to defeat fear and inspire hope.”
