News
Insecurity; Ododo empowers 1,050 hunters with security gadgets in Kogi
Gov. Ahmed Ododo of Kogi has empowered the newly recruited 1,050 Hunters in the state with security gadgets and safety materials to boost community policing.
Ododo, who superintended over the gadgets’ distribution on Thursday in Lokoja, charged the hunters to deal decisively with criminals and ensure protection of lives and property across the state.
“We are all Kogites, we must protect ourselves. Kogi is not a free-trade zone for criminals; you have government’s backing to protect the land, when you see them, deal with them decisively.
“We are not new in this game, criminals must be wiped out of our land.
“We are good people and God knows why he created us as a people, Kogi State is blessed with numerous mineral deposits if you want to trade with us, we are ready to trade with you.
“But if you are coming with criminal intention, we are ever ready to fish you out and deal with you decisively,” Ododo warned.
The governor maintained that the security of lives and property remained his number one responsibility to the people of Kogi.
“Our resolve to evolve a grassroots-led security approach and engage our hunters was amplified by their courageous and professional conduct during our rescue efforts that led to the release of 29 of the 31 Kidnapped students from CUSTECH.
“Our faith in the people-led security approach as a new strategy is a clear manifestation of our determination to recalibrate our security architecture,” said.
He commended Kogi House of Assembly for the prompt approval of the recruitment of 1,050 hunters to complement the efforts of the conventional security agencies.
“We are at an advanced stage to insure the lives of the hunters.
“We are also distributing security gadgets and safety materials such as Level 4 Ballistic Vests to fend off bullet attacks as well as boots to help them move around in the forests unhurt among other materials.
“In our fight against terror, we must agree that battlefields have changed and technology has evolved.
“We are determined to fight at different levels and secure our land and people. Kogi will be steps ahead of the enemies of peace,” he said.
The governor advised the hunters to exhibit the highest level of responsibility and discipline in the discharge of their duties, expressing his confidence in their capacity, discipline, patriotism and professionalism.
Ododo said that his administration was determined to combine both kinetic and the non-kinetic approach to ensure security.
“We are creating an environment that is birthing new jobs for our teeming youth. We are making education free to ensure every child is educated.
“However, we will go after the criminal elements with our wall of strength. We shall win,” he added.
He urged the hunters to collaborate effectively with security agencies devoid of any kind of rivalry.
Ododo thanked President Bola Tinubu for making it possible for states to introduce local solutions to curtail the activities of criminals, and commended the National Security Adviser for constantly supporting efforts to make Kogi safe for all.
He appreciated the heads of security agencies for giving proper orientation to the recruited hunters on the rules of their engagement, adding that the collaboration had been the energy driving security success in Kogi.
In his remarks, the Commissioner of Police in Kogi, Bertrand Onuoha, commended the governor for his foresight in securing lives and property in the state.
“All of us knows the topography of Kogi State which poses security challenge. All we are seeing here is in line with the Inspector General of Police vision on community policing.
“If all this security agencies are established without synergy, much will not be achieved.
“Am using this medium to call for the integration of all security agencies in the state.
“I have directed Area Commanders to always make use of vigilantes and hunters. When we harmonise, our services will be more interesting,” he said.
Earlier, the State’s Security Adviser, Retired Cdr Jerry Omdara, noted that the hunters had been subjected to some level of intensive training and orientation to guide them in the task ahead. (NAN
The Oyo State Police Command on Tuesday said that the video of the alleged invasion of the state by suspected Boko Haram currently circulating on social media was recycled.
The command’s spokesman, CSP Adewale Osifeso, stated this in a statement made available to newsmen on Tuesday in Ibadan, the state capital.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that a video clip is currently being circulated on social media alleging the arrest of suspected Boko Haram members who invaded the state along the Ibadan Expressway.
“The Police Command in Oyo wishes to address the recent circulation of misleading information on social media regarding a video that purportedly shows an attempted invasion of the state by Boko Haram elements intercepted along the Ibadan Express road.
“The video, which allegedly depicts articulated trucks filled with motorcycles and weapons, has been verified as a recycled clip from 2022,” he said.
Osifeso said the re-emergence of the video, particularly during a period of enhanced security in the state, suggests a deliberate attempt by certain individuals with malicious intent, seeking to spread falsehoods and incite fear and unrest.
“The command urges the public to remain vigilant and disregard such antics; we assure that this does not pose any current threat to the safety and security of the state.
“To further substantiate our claim regarding the video’s outdated nature, we note that the Divisional Crime Officer (DCO) at the Ilero Divisional Police Headquarters, DSP. Segun Adeyemo, who appeared briefly in the video, retired from the Nigeria Police Force in August 2024 after a long period of meritorious service,” he added.
Osifeso reaffirmed the command’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding all residents in the state.
He urged the public to avoid circulating outdated video content pertaining to issues that had been previously resolved and encouraged them to thoroughly verify any information before sharing on social media.
NAN
It was an evening of glamour, prestige, and fine living as the crème de la crème of society gathered for the Falcon Aero Jet Night, hosted in collaboration with Glenfiddich Grand Cru. The event, which took place amidst an atmosphere of refined luxury, marked the announcement of a major partnership: Glenfiddich Grand Cru is now the official in-flight spirit and drinks partner for Viva Jets, catering to both local and intercontinental long-haul flights.
The gathering attracted industry heavyweights, top executives, and celebrated Nigerian celebrities, all of whom came out in full support of the union between the two premium brands. Guests and business leaders at the event expressed strong optimism that the partnership would set new standards for luxury travel and sophisticated experiences, aligning with the shared values of excellence and class that both brands embody.
Speaking on the significance of the partnership, Eddie Madaki, the Glenfiddich Grand Cru representative, emphasized that the collaboration with Viva Jets is a testament to the brand’s commitment to offering memorable, world-class experiences. “This partnership with Aero Jet will continue to create unforgettable memories for our patrons. Glenfiddich Grand Cru stands for elegance, tradition, and innovation, and we are excited to bring this spirit of excellence to the skies,” he said.
A representative from Aero Jet also shared insights into their vision for the collaboration, highlighting the importance of selecting Glenfiddich Grand Cru as their official in-flight partner. According to the representative, the choice was driven by Glenfiddich’s reputation for quality and luxury, which perfectly complements the bespoke flying experience Aero Jet is renowned for providing to its discerning clientele.
Glenfiddich Grand Cru is a unique expression from the Glenfiddich distillery, renowned globally for its pioneering spirit and craftsmanship. Aged for 23 years and finished in rare French cuvée casks, Glenfiddich Grand Cru fuses the finest flavours from Scotland and France, delivering an extraordinary drinking experience designed to celebrate life’s most special moments. This latest partnership further cements Glenfiddich’s standing as a beacon of luxury and sophistication.
The Falcon Aero Jet Night was not just a celebration of a new venture, but a true testament to the power of vision, craftsmanship, and shared values, ushering in a new era of premium experiences in aviation and luxury lifestyle.
By Israel Bulus, Kaduna
The Executive Chairman of the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS), Comrade Jerry Adams, has commended the growing commitment of political leaders to the development of Southern Kaduna, describing it as unprecedented.
Speaking at the Southern Kaduna Solemn Assembly for Restoration held in Bara, Jema’a Local Government Area, Adams attributed the progress to the inclusive governance style of Governor Uba Sani and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, citing several ongoing developmental projects as evidence of their dedication.
The meeting, convened at the instance of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, brought together traditional rulers, religious leaders, and political figures to strategize on advancing the region’s growth.
Adams noted that Southern Kaduna is witnessing an unparalleled drive for development under the current leadership, and he urged residents to remain politically united ahead of the 2027 elections to consolidate these gains.
“Since the return of democracy, this is the first time we are seeing leaders who are truly passionate about the development of Southern Kaduna,” he said.
“We must learn to love ourselves so that others can love and respect us.”
Highlighting some of the projects the Governor played a pivotal role, Adams mentioned the military barracks under construction in Samaru Kataf, the Federal Medical Centre in Kafanchan, and the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia.
He emphasized that the governor had to reclaim some state-owned properties to facilitate these developments.
“Southern Kaduna is not there yet, but we are firmly on the path to progress,” Adams asserted.
He further called on the people of the region to unite politically and vote strategically in the 2027 elections, stressing that coordinated political action is crucial for attracting greater development.
“We must bring our votes together and negotiate a better deal for our people, rather than voting indiscriminately, which in the past has led to misfortune for the region,” he added.