Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has dismissed claims that his recent Executive Proclamation on security amounts to the imposition of a state of emergency, explaining that the action is strictly aimed at reinforcing the state’s security framework to confront criminal activities and safeguard residents across Kogi State.
The clarification was made in a statement issued by the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Ismaila Isah, who explained that the proclamation is a constitutional step aimed at enhancing coordination among security agencies and ensuring the protection of lives and property in all parts of the state.
Governor Ododo stressed that the action falls within his constitutional responsibilities as the Chief Security Officer of Kogi State, as provided 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 the primary purpose of government.
He emphasized that the proclamation does not suspend any constitutional rights, nor does it impose emergency rule, but is focused on improving security operations through better identification, verification and collaboration among security operatives.
The Governor explained that key aspects of the proclamation include the verification of all security personnel operating within the state, mandatory identification checks, and strict legal action against individuals or groups found aiding, abetting or harbouring criminals such as bandits and terrorists.
He noted that the measures are also targeted at eliminating the growing menace of fake security operatives, which poses a serious threat to public safety and undermines genuine security efforts.
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Governor Ododo issued a strong warning that any individual or organization found supporting criminal activities would be treated as enemies of the state and prosecuted under relevant laws.
He further stated that properties and assets used in the commission of crimes would be confiscated and forfeited to the Kogi State Government.
The Governor added that these actions are supported by existing legal frameworks, including the Kogi State Anti-Kidnapping, Robbery and Terrorism Law of 2016, which empowers the government to seize properties linked to violent crimes anywhere in the state.
He expressed appreciation to security agencies for their continued efforts and sacrifices, while reassuring residents of his administration’s unwavering commitment to maintaining peace, law and order.
The Executive Proclamation follows the recent recovery of a large cache of arms and ammunition by security agencies in the state, acting on credible intelligence, an incident that prompted the government to introduce stricter security protocols to prevent further threats to public safety.
Crediblenewsng.com
