Ododo warns against politicising insecurity

Gov. Ahmed Ododo of Kogi on Tuesday, warned against attempts by some politicians to politicise the security challenges of both the Federal and State Governments.

Ododo gave the warning in a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr Kingsley Fanwo, in Lokoja.

He reaffirmed the unwavering commitment to combating insecurity for the safety of Kogi residents and desired development.

“This government is urging stakeholders to avoid spreading fear or politicising the state’s security challenges.

“We, hereby, reaffirm our unwavering commitment to combating insecurity. Therefore, all residents , especially political actors and media stakeholders, should avoid spreading fear or politicising the state’s security challenges.

“Our administration is quietly but effectively recording progress in its fight against criminal elements, particularly kidnappers within the state.”

According to him, the gains recorded so far are not coincidental but resulted from well-planned strategies and deep institutional engagements, aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of every resident of Kogi.

Ododo, who sympathised with families affected by recent attacks in the state, stressed that such incidents should not be used to spread misinformation or panic.

“Misinformation and alarmist narratives only embolden criminals and demoralise communities. We call on opinion leaders and the media to work with us, not against us.

“The politicisation of insecurity by certain desperate politicians, only undermines our collective fight against crime.

“Those who brought medicines whose side effects were worse than the ailments should not raise frivolous alarms when the right medicines are administered.

“According to credible intelligence, the rise in security threats in parts of Kogi is linked to regional shifts, especially as intensified security operations in the North East and North West have forced criminal elements to migrate toward the North Central, including Kogi.

“Our duty is not to spread fear but to inspire hope, and we are not just speaking hope, we are delivering it through action,” he stated.

The governor urged politicians to focus on performance as a tool for re-election, rather than raising panic, saying that performers do not fear re-election.

He lauded President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, Service Chiefs, and local security outfits such as the Vigilante Service and Hunters Group, for their unwavering support.