The Kogi State government has warned youth in the state against helping criminals involved in kidnapping and banditry.
The Security Adviser to the state governor, retired Commodore Jerry Omodara, made this announcement during a visit to the palace of the Elegbe of Egbe, Oba Ayodele Irukera, on Tuesday.
He was providing an update on the government’s efforts to combat insecurity in Kogi West.
Omodara stated that the government is determined to treat any youths who assist kidnappers and bandits as if they are part of the criminal gangs themselves.
He revealed that authorities have information suggesting that some young people in the Okun area have been using motorcycles to deliver food and weapons to the bandits hiding in the forests.
He noted that a few youths from Okun land are already under surveillance for their connections to these criminals.
Omodara expressed disappointment that some locals are aiding the bandits, mentioning that local women have been providing food to these criminals and giving them important information.
He also highlighted that in some parts of Yagba West, people have been paying the bandits to avoid being kidnapped, and he assured the public that those individuals would be identified in due course.
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He criticized the situation where local women are becoming involved with bandits and pointed out that the younger generation seems to be relying on outsiders to do essential farming work.
He said that the government is committed to making the communities safer for farmers by continuing to track and arrest bandits so that residents can live in peace.
Omodara emphasized that the state has invested a lot in agriculture by providing support to farmers and urged the people of Okun land to take charge of their futures and protect their community.
He encouraged the youth to utilize the agricultural opportunities available to improve their livelihoods.
