Northern Insecurity spilling into Kogi State, says Ododo

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo, has attributed the rising insecurity in his state to the spillover of terrorist activities from the North-East and North-West regions of Nigeria. Speaking in Abuja, Ododo emphasized that Kogi is not a safe haven for criminals fleeing military operations in other parts of the country. He stated that his administration is committed to protecting the lives and livelihoods of the people of Kogi State, and assured that the government is dealing decisively with the security challenges .

By Rhalialt Arhuoizah

Key Points:

- Cause of Insecurity: Ododo identified the influx of terrorists from the North-East and North-West as the primary cause of insecurity in Kogi State.
- Government Response: The governor assured that the government is dealing decisively with the security challenges, and many of those who attacked communities in Kogi State have been killed.
- Strategic Location: Kogi State's location, bordering 10 states including the FCT, makes it vulnerable to infiltration by fleeing armed elements.
- Underutilization of Resources: Ododo also cited underutilization of natural and agricultural resources as contributing factors to insecurity in the state .

The governor's comments come amid ongoing security challenges in Nigeria, with the Nigerian military waging war against terrorists in the North-East and North-West regions. The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has also raised concerns about the challenges hindering the effective employment of air power against enemies of the state in Nigeria, including funding challenges, complex international politics, and myriad security threats .