Kogi Government Denies Security Breakdown, Affirms Control Over Situation

The Kogi State Government has firmly denied any claims suggesting a breakdown of security or law and order within the state.

According to Kingsley Fanwo, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, there is no siege or unrest in the region, as all necessary security measures are actively being implemented to eliminate any threats.

During a media briefing in Lokoja on Friday, Fanwo emphasized that the government remains in full control, especially concerning the situation in Yagba West Local Government Area.

“We are carefully balancing urgent actions with a thoughtful approach to ensure that the situation is not escalated unnecessarily. The government is handling the matter with targeted and strategic interventions,” Fanwo noted.

He stressed that no part of Kogi State is experiencing a security collapse and reassured that collaborative efforts with national security forces are well underway to ensure peace and stability.

“We are at an advanced stage in working with national security institutions to eliminate all threats,” he added.

Fanwo went on to praise local security outfits, especially the Okun hunters and other grassroots vigilante structures, for playing a crucial role in sustaining public safety.

“Community-level contributions are central to our security approach. His Excellency has empowered the State Security Adviser to intensify these grassroots defense mechanisms,” he stated.

Fanwo further disclosed that intelligence from the government has located specific hideouts of criminal elements. However, he clarified that the security forces are executing operations with precision, aiming to prevent any harm to innocent individuals.

“These criminal actors are using innocent citizens as shields—many of whom have been abducted from Kogi and neighboring states. Our mission is to secure our citizens while ensuring that the lives of hostages are not endangered,” he concluded.