Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has clarified that his recent executive proclamation on security protocols does not amount to a declaration of a state of emergency in the state.
The Governor said the proclamation is a constitutional and lawful measure aimed at strengthening the state’s security architecture and intensifying the crackdown on criminal activities across Kogi State.
The clarification was contained in a statement issued by the Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Hon. Ismaila Isah, who explained that the proclamation was designed to enhance coordination among security agencies and protect lives and property.
Governor Ododo stressed that the action was taken in line with his powers as Chief Security Officer of the state under Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which places the security and welfare of the people as a primary purpose of government.
He noted that the proclamation does not suspend constitutional rights nor impose emergency rule, but introduces additional security measures to improve law enforcement effectiveness.
According to the Governor, the measures include the verification of security operatives, mandatory identification checks, and the prosecution of individuals found aiding or abetting criminal elements such as bandits and terrorists.
He added that the proclamation is also aimed at curbing the activities of fake security personnel and strengthening overall security coordination in the state.
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Governor Ododo warned that individuals or organisations supporting criminal activities would be treated as enemies of the state and prosecuted in line with existing laws, adding that properties used in the commission of such crimes would be forfeited to the Kogi State Government.
He said the action is further backed by the Kogi State Anti-Kidnapping, Robbery and Terrorism Law of 2016, which empowers the government to seize assets linked to violent crimes.
The Governor commended security agencies for their continued efforts and reassured residents of his administration’s commitment to peace and security across the state.
It will be recalled that Governor Ododo announced the security protocols on Tuesday following the recovery of a large cache of weapons by security agencies acting on intelligence.
