Bandit Leaders Relocate to Kogi — Governor Ododo Orders All Gatherings to End by 4 PM

The governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has raised serious alarms over new intelligence suggesting that the commanders of dreaded bandit groups have relocated into Kogi State.

He made the disclosure during an emergency meeting with security agencies, traditional rulers, and state officials at the Government House in Lokoja. The meeting, convened in the wake of rising insecurity across parts of the state, resulted in the imposition of sweeping security directives to protect residents.

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The State Security Council resolved that all social, religious, or public gatherings must end by 4:00 p.m. daily until further notice.

Churches, mosques, event centres, and other public venues were instructed to adjust their schedules accordingly — failure to comply may result in closure or demolition of the facility.

Governor Ododo stated clearly that the administration has rejected any form of negotiation or ransom payment to criminals. He vowed that the state would rather “take the fight to them” than bow to bandits.

According to the governor, intelligence gathered over the past three days confirmed that major bandit commanders have relocated to Kogi, using it as a new base to plan and launch attacks. He emphasized that because of this shift, security risks have increased dramatically, necessitating swift preventive measures to protect communities.

Ododo urged residents to stay vigilant, support security agencies with credible information, and avoid rumours that could deepen panic. He also warned that those spreading false alarms may be prosecuted as part of efforts to curb misinformation.