Kogi: Ododo bans illegal mining

Richard Elesho

The governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo, on Monday, visited Isanlu Esa, Okoloke, Okunran, in Yagba West Local Government Area of the state, an axis that has suffered multiple security infractions in recent times.

The governor, during the visit, banned illegal mining and vowed to eliminate criminality and banditry out of the state.

Ododo commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, for their maximum support to see that criminality and banditry are eliminated completely from the state and the nation at large.

He further praised members of the security agencies for their dedication, commitment, bravery, selflessness and professionalism in ensuring that the lives and livelihood of people are secured, charging them to remain united for a common goal as the necessary supports needed would be given.

“Let me thank you for your efforts at ensuring security in this area. Your synergy has made your assignment easier, and I am always ready to provide all necessary support to triumph over criminality,” the governor said.

He regretted that the state had neglected the fertile land for farming as well as the mineral deposits in commercial quantities unexplored, assuring the citizenry of his administration’s unwavering commitment towards the full exploration for transformative development.

“I also want to commiserate with families and communities that have lost their loved ones. As your governor, I share in your pains, and I am determined to make criminality a thing of the past in this local government. I was elected to protect lives and property, and we will not relent until Kogi State is safe,” he emphasized.

The governor ordered the traditional rulers to stop giving out land to strangers for peanut and urged them to admonish the youths not to be used as agents by the criminals, stressing that anyone caught would be treated as criminals.

He charged the miners to obtain a license from the federal government and come to the state for profiling, stressing that anyone who disobeys the order would face the wrath of the law.

In his welcome remarks, the Commander of the Nigerian Army in charge of the operation, Brigadier General K. U. Sidi commended the combined efforts of the security agencies, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, Department of State Services (DSS), and special forces in combating criminality in the area.

Sidi expressed appreciation to the governor for his sustained support to the security agencies, noting that the provision of logistics and other assistance had strengthened their capacity to secure the area. He also acknowledged the “invaluable contributions” of the Hybrid Force from the Office of the National Security Adviser for the ongoing operation in Yagba West.

The Royal Father of Isanlu Esa, HRH Oba Olufemi Ogunremi commended Governor Ododo and the security agencies for their efforts, stressing that their relentless efforts had made it possible for the residents to still remain within the community.

He appealed to the security agencies to maintain their presence in the area until criminal activities are completely eradicated.