Kogi: Gov Ododo moves to crush banditry in Olle-Bunu as Army deploys 12 Brigade

The Kogi State government has facilitated the deployment of operatives from the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade to Olle-Bunu in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area to stem banditry in the area and its environs.

The deployment, which followed intelligence that fleeing bandits were attempting to infiltrate the community, was formalised during a visit by the State Security Adviser, Commander Duro Jerry Omodara (retd), who declared that the state would not cede any inch of its territory to criminals.

The move is part of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s comprehensive and aggressive approach to securing lives and property across the state. According to intelligence reports, with major flashpoints like Odo-Ape already sealed off through joint operations involving the military, hunters, and vigilante groups, Olle-Bunu had emerged as a potential escape corridor for displaced criminal elements.

Commander Omodara, addressing traditional rulers, youth leaders, and community stakeholders during the visit, warned that anyone aiding or abetting criminals—be it as informants, transporters, or harbourers—would be treated as an enemy of the state.

“This deployment is not just about chasing bandits. It’s a strong message that wherever they run, we will follow. Our communities must be safe for development, safe for our children, and safe for our future,” he said.

The Nigerian Army has since established a temporary forward operations base in the community and ramped up patrols and surveillance. Major Usman Mohammed, who represented the Brigade Commander, reiterated the army’s readiness to confront threats and praised the government for its support.

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The community members welcomed the intervention, and speaking on behalf of the Olle-Bunu people, Elder John Ebajemito pledged full cooperation with security forces and thanked Governor Ododo for his proactive leadership.

“This government has shown that security is not negotiable. We will work hand-in-hand with the army to ensure no criminal finds refuge in Olle-Bunu,” he assured.

The government has also urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements. The Security Adviser said community intelligence remains the soul of effective security, and every citizen has a role to play.

He explained that the deployment underscored Governor Ododo’s zero-tolerance stance on insecurity and his unwavering commitment to making every community in Kogi safe and secure.

“Let no criminal feels safe. Let no informer sleep in peace. This is our home. We must defend it together,” Omodara stated.

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