By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.

In a stark and urgent warning, Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has confirmed that major bandit commanders have relocated into the state, prompting a full-scale security mobilization and a vow of zero compromise from his administration.

Speaking during a security briefing, Ododo said intelligence reports revealed that top leaders of violent criminal networks settled in Kogi within the last 72 hours. He emphasized that the state will not adopt a defensive posture but will instead take the fight directly to the armed groups.

“The major bandits’ commanders have relocated to Kogi State for the past three days,” Ododo stated. “We have been on that. We will not wait for them to attack us — we will take the fight to them. We have all agreed that we’re not going to bow to these criminals. We’re not going to negotiate. We will never pay ransom.”

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to aggressive counter-operations, insisting that Kogi will not become a safe haven for criminal elements fleeing pressure from neighboring states.

Security agencies have reportedly intensified surveillance, deployed tactical units, and expanded community intelligence networks in preparation for potential confrontations.

Ododo’s declaration comes amid a broader national struggle to contain violent bandit groups responsible for kidnappings, raids, and mass displacements across parts of northern Nigeria.

State officials say the government stands firm: Kogi will confront, not concede.