Governor Ahmed Ododo of Kogi State has issued a stern warning to criminal elements, advising them to stay away from the state, as Kogi is not a conducive environment for criminal activities.
Ododo made this statement while addressing journalists shortly after observing the Eid-el-Kabir prayer on Sunday at the Okene Eid Praying Ground.
He remarked that the criminals responsible for the kidnapping of students from the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH) in Osara tested his administration’s capabilities but suffered the consequences.
“They attempted to test our response and faced the repercussions of their actions. Kogi is not a place where criminals can operate freely. They have experienced the outcome of their attempts; if they come in large numbers, they will leave with nothing. I can’t specify what awaits them, but they should avoid trying it again,” Ododo stated.
The governor reported that the government successfully rescued 29 out of the 31 kidnapped CUSTECH students, though unfortunately, two were killed by their abductors.
Ododo prayed for the souls of the deceased and extended his condolences to their families.
“Security is a top priority for us in Kogi, and we are doing everything possible, with the support of the President, to ensure the safety and security of everyone in this state,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to the heads of security agencies, as well as the vigilantes and hunters, for their collaborative efforts in protecting the lives and property of the citizens.
Regarding the prompt payment of workers’ salaries, Ododo emphasized that the government is fulfilling its responsibilities to the citizens, not doing them a favor.
“We are doing what we should as a government for the people of Kogi State, particularly the civil servants. When people are happy, they are more motivated to perform their duties diligently, which enhances productivity. It is our responsibility to care for our people, and we are doing so with the help of God and the support of the President,” he explained.
Ododo praised President Tinubu for his efforts at the national level and urged Nigerians to support him by embracing his programs and policies.
“I encourage the people of Kogi and all Nigerians to continue praying for our leaders, especially the President, so that together we can overcome the inherited economic challenges,” he said.
The governor called on the people to use the Sallah celebration as an opportunity to remember and support the less privileged among them.
“This is a period that represents sacrifice and submission to the will of God Almighty. I urge everyone to continue being good ambassadors of our state and the country,” Ododo concluded.
