Lokoja — The Kogi State Government has confirmed that several armed bandits operating within the state have begun reaching out to authorities with expressions of willingness to lay down their weapons, even as intensified security operations continue across the region.
According to the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd), some militants have made overtures to the government, signalling a desire to end their armed activities and seek a peaceful exit from criminal networks. This development comes in the context of sustained bombardment and offensive actions by state and security forces against bandit hideouts in forested areas of the state.
Government Response: No Bargaining with Criminals
Despite these reported overtures from bandits, the state government has reiterated its longstanding position not to engage in formal negotiations or peace deals with criminal elements. Commander Omodara stressed that while some groups have reached out, the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo will continue to pursue a robust security strategy focused on degradation of criminal capacity rather than political compromise.
The government’s posture aligns with broader federal directives cautioning against negotiating with bandits — a stance echoed by authorities at the national level to prevent legitimising criminal networks.
Security Strategy and Legislative Measures
Officials say the state has deployed enhanced technology, intelligence-led operations, and logistics support to security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, police, and vigilante groups, as part of its overarching strategy to counter banditry. Strengthened surveillance and tactical offensive measures have been highlighted as key success factors in recent months.
In addition to kinetic operations, the Kogi government is reportedly drafting new legislation aimed at outlawing residence in unmonitored forest areas — a policy intended to reduce the ability of bandits to hide within rural terrain and terrorise isolated communities. Citizens are being encouraged to live in recognised settlements where security presence is stronger.
Context: Rising Tensions and Security Response
Kogi’s security landscape has seen multiple violent incidents attributed to armed gangs, including attacks on highways and rural villages, kidnappings, and other acts of terror. In response, joint military and police operations have had measurable impact, with several engagements resulting in the neutralisation of bandit elements and disruption of their networks.
On the ground, troops and paramilitary units continue coordinated actions to rescue abducted victims and deter incursions into rural communities. Such operations have involved patrols, ambushes, and clearing activities aimed at flushing out criminals from known hideouts.
Public Safety Outlook and Government Messaging
The state government continues to portray Kogi as relatively safer compared with other parts of the region — attributing gains to strong political will, aggressive security strategy, and civilian support. Officials underscore that any overtures from bandit groups must be assessed within a framework that upholds the rule of law and public safety, rather than offering impunity for past crimes.
As events unfold, authorities have urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible intelligence and remaining vigilant against misinformation that could undermine community confidence.