Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Ododo, has announced the discovery of a large cache of arms and ammunition during a coordinated security operation targeting criminal hideouts across the state.
The recovery followed more than a week of intelligence-driven surveillance carried out by security agencies working closely with the state government. Items seized include 24 AK-47 rifles, 23 pump-action rifles, a Tavor rifle, an FN rifle, four Barrett pistols, four Browning rifles, 42 magazines, 520 rounds of GPMG 7.62 ammunition, and large quantities of other ammunition. Security operatives also recovered handcuffs, holsters, tear gas cartridges and parts of submachine guns.
Briefing journalists in Lokoja on Tuesday, Governor Ododo described the operation as a decisive breakthrough in the fight against crime.
“This operation was the result of sustained intelligence gathering and strong coordination among all security agencies,” he said.
The governor explained that the intensified crackdown was sparked by his recent meeting with President Bola Tinubu, who urged him to do even more to secure the state.
“When I met Mr President, I expected praise, but instead he told me to go back and do more for my people. That pushed us to regroup, align our strategies with the security agencies and act swiftly on credible intelligence,” Ododo said.
According to him, security operatives carried out an overnight operation that led to the discovery of a major criminal enclave where the weapons were hidden. Although no arrests were made during the raid, the governor said the seizure itself was a significant strategic success.
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Ododo noted that Kogi’s location makes it vulnerable to criminal activity, as it borders 10 states and serves as a major transit route.
“Kogi State is on full alert. The DSS, police, military, navy and other agencies are working round the clock. We will not bow to criminals and we will not negotiate with them,” he declared.
He called on residents to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information, assuring them that the government remains committed to protecting lives and property.
The governor also commended the security agencies for their cooperation and thanked President Tinubu for his support, urging citizens to remain calm and continue their lawful activities without fear.
