Eric Patrick
Operatives of the Joint Task Force (JTF) comprising different security agencies have apprehended 26 suspected kidnappers in a clean-up operation in Kogi West Senatorial District.
The State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd), made this known on Tuesday while parading the suspects before journalists in Odo-Ape, the Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area.
The arrests were the result of a sustained two-week operation targeting criminal elements in Kogi West Senatorial District.
According to Omodara, those arrested include not only armed kidnappers operating from forest hideouts, but also local collaborators accused of supplying them with logistics, such as food, water, and other essentials.
“This operation has extended beyond just those in the bush. We have arrested several community members who were aiding these criminals by providing critical supplies,” Omodara stated.
He further revealed that investigations following the tragic death of retired Major Joe Ajayi—who was recently kidnapped—uncovered evidence of local complicity, with several natives implicated in supporting the kidnappers.
“These suspects are now cooperating with security operatives and providing valuable information to dismantle the broader kidnapping network in the region,” he said.
Omodara reiterated the state government’s zero-tolerance stance on kidnapping and other violent crimes, warning that Kogi will not become a haven for criminals.
“Kogi is not a state where bandits and kidnappers can thrive. We are fully committed to rooting them out,” he declared.
He urged local communities to adopt a proactive security posture, noting that vigilante groups are now authorized to carry arms to defend their areas.
“We encourage residents to develop grassroots intelligence networks. Alarmingly, some women are being used to purchase food and other supplies, which are then passed on to criminals through youth collaborators in these communities,” he added.
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Commander Omodara emphasized that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo remains fully committed to restoring peace across the state.
“Security is a top priority for Governor Ododo. These arrests are just the beginning.
“We are working closely with all security agencies to ensure that law and order are maintained in every part of Kogi,” he affirmed.
The Security Adviser warned politicians, traditional leaders, and youth groups against colluding with criminal networks, stressing that anyone found guilty of such involvement will face the full force of the law.
He also disclosed that the state government has reinforced border defenses to prevent the influx of criminals from neighboring regions.
“Our mission is clear: bandits and kidnappers have no place in Kogi State. We will continue this offensive until every threat is neutralized,” Omodara said.