Speaking after a meeting with the National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abuja on Friday, Governor Ododo said recent intelligence and field operations indicated that several criminal elements, previously operating in conflict zones, have begun to infiltrate communities in the North Central as a result of sustained military campaigns in their former strongholds.

“These individuals fleeing military operations are not coming with any positive intentions,” the governor stated. “They are criminals, and their presence in forested areas across the region has posed a growing threat.”

Ododo noted that while Kogi State has faced attempted incursions by such groups, the state’s security architecture has been proactive in pushing back against these threats. “We do not publicize our strategies, but I can assure you, we are responding with precision. Many of those who attempted to disturb our communities did not survive their own aggression,” he said.

The governor emphasized that Kogi remains committed to ensuring the safety and stability of its residents. “We understand the weight of our responsibility to protect lives and livelihoods. Our response has been firm and coordinated, and we will not relent.”

His comments come amid broader national concerns following recent violent incidents in Benue and other parts of the North Central zone. President Bola Tinubu had earlier visited affected communities in Benue to express solidarity with victims and reassure them of ongoing federal efforts to improve security.

Governor Ododo’s remarks underscore the spillover effects of military operations in other regions and highlight the need for coordinated, nationwide responses to evolving security dynamics.

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