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By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
Government House, Lokoja
December 16, 2025
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, on Tuesday issued a far-reaching Executive Proclamation on Security Protocols aimed at tightening the state’s security architecture, firmly stressing that the action does not amount to a declaration of a State of Emergency.
The governor made this clarification in Lokoja while receiving a large cache of recovered arms and ammunition at the Government House, following coordinated security operations across the state.
Governor Ododo explained that the proclamation is anchored on clear constitutional provisions. Citing Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), he noted that the security and welfare of the people remain the primary responsibility of government.
He further referenced Section 176 and related provisions which vest executive powers in the Governor to ensure public order, safety and good governance within the state.
“By these constitutional provisions, the Governor of Kogi State is empowered to take lawful executive and administrative measures to support security agencies in protecting lives, property and the territorial integrity of the state,” Ododo declared.
He observed that Kogi State has recently faced evolving and complex security threats, including the infiltration of criminal elements masquerading as security operatives, as well as logistics and operational support for bandits and other criminal groups.
According to him, these developments necessitated stronger coordination, accountability and preventive measures without suspending fundamental rights or invoking emergency powers.
Consequently, the Governor announced a comprehensive set of security protocols. Under the proclamation, any individual or organisation found to be knowingly identifying with, supporting, harbouring, aiding or showing material solidarity with bandits, terrorists or criminal elements within Kogi State will be treated as criminal collaborators and enemies of the state, and dealt with strictly under the law.
He added that vendors, suppliers, transporters or commercial entities providing goods, services, funding, food, fuel, logistics or communication support to criminal groups will be investigated, arrested and prosecuted.
Similarly, any person, professional body or firm found facilitating, financing or providing cover for bandits or terrorists beyond what is permitted by law will face prosecution in accordance with due process.
Governor Ododo further disclosed that all movable and immovable assets used in the commission of such crimes will be forfeited to the Kogi State Government.
However, he clarified that nothing in the proclamation is intended to criminalise lawful activities carried out in good faith and in line with constitutional guarantees.
To address the growing menace of impersonation, the Governor directed that all security operatives entering or operating within Kogi State must properly identify themselves and present valid operational credentials when required. Security personnel within the state will now be subjected to verification and clearance by a Security Monitoring Team comprising representatives of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and other paramilitary agencies.
“Anyone impersonating a security operative or operating without valid identification or authorisation will be immediately arrested, investigated and charged to court,” Ododo warned, describing the measure as critical to curbing the alarming infiltration of fake and unauthorised persons posing as security operatives.
He announced that security monitoring teams will be strategically stationed at border communities and key entry points across the state, while operatives from other states or formations must obtain proper clearance in line with inter-agency protocols before conducting operations in Kogi.
Reiterating the intent of the proclamation, Governor Ododo stated, “This measure is solely to strengthen the security architecture of Kogi State, enhance coordination among security agencies and protect our people from criminal elements, including the danger posed by fake security personnel. It is not, and should not be interpreted as, a declaration of a state of emergency or a suspension of the constitution or fundamental human rights.”
The proclamation, he said, will take effect upon publication in the Kogi State Official Gazette.
On the recovery of arms, the governor confirmed that several deadly weapons were intercepted on Monday night through the combined efforts of security agencies, though no arrests were made.
He commended the agencies for their vigilance and commitment.
Items recovered include 24 AK-47 rifles, 23 compact rifles, one Carbo rifle, one FA rifle, 4 pistols, 4 Proony rifles, 42 assorted magazines, two GPMG guns, 520 rounds of armour-piercing ammunition, several rounds of AK-47 ammunition, cartridges for compact rifles and pistols, three handcuffs, 13 cartridge belts and other related items.
Governor Ododo issued a stern warning to criminal elements, declaring that his administration would take the fight directly to their hideouts and would never negotiate with criminals. He noted that Kogi State’s position as a gateway bordering ten states presents unique security challenges, but assured residents that the government is equal to the task.
He concluded by appreciating all security agencies for their tireless efforts, stressing that their presence and sacrifice are solely in service of the people.
“We are out to serve the people. That is why we are here,” the governor said, adding that security chiefs rarely leave the state as they remain fully committed to crushing criminality and restoring lasting peace in Kogi State.
