In a significant collaboration, the Kogi State Government has deployed operatives of the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade to Olle-Bunu in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area to stem the tide of banditry threatening the area and its environs.
The deployment, which followed credible intelligence reports of fleeing armed bandits attempting to infiltrate the community, was formalized during a visit by the State Security Adviser, Commander Duro Jerry Omodara (Rtd), who delivered a message: Kogi will not cede an inch of its territory to criminals.
Kingsley Fanwo, Commissioner for Information and Communication, who made this known said the move is part of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s comprehensive approach to securing lives and property across the state. With improvements being recorded in a Odo-Ape, a major flashpoint, Olle-Bunu 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 harborers—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.
Community members welcomed the intervention. 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.
