₦airaland Forum

An Interview with The Punch Newspaper

Punch:

Baba Imam, you have argued that violent criminals, especially kidnappers and bandits, should face the full weight of the law rather than rehabilitation. From an Islamic perspective, what is your basis for this position?

Sanusi Lafiagi:

Kidnappers, bandits, and other violent criminals who are terrorizing the great citizens of this country should be made to face the full wrath of the law. This is the position of the Shari'ah as explicitly stated in Quran 5:33. This is because in Islam, the cardinal objectives of the Shari'ah must be protected at all times and by all means necessary. These objectives are: protection of faith, life, wealth, intellect, and honour. Any violation of these objectives must be avenged accordingly. Therefore, anyone who actively participates in the violation of these basic rights by killing, kidnapping, raping, and taking ransom should be summarily exexuted by the military at the theatre of war. Those who are arrested should be prosecuted in court and dealt with accordingly without any delay.

The Shari'ah also permits rehabilitation of those who repented and willingly submitted themselves to the authority out of remorse, and not because they were overpowered at the theatre of war. They are the ones to be considered for rehabilitation. Those who only submitted themselves to the authority because the military had gained an upper hand over them and they were going to be eliminated anyways are not repentant criminals in the true sense of it. The government must never dialogue with these criminals, especially from the position of weakness or equal strength. It only emboldens them. The only dialogue with them should be through the bullets and bombs.
____________________________

Punch:

The government has been pushing deradicalization and rehabilitation programs for repentant bandits. Why do you believe this approach is failing, and what are the dangers you see in it?

Sanusi Lafiagi:

The approach of government in this regard is faulty and it will not resolve the crisis either in the short or long term. The reason is that these criminals are not fighting for a particular or singular reason. In fact, they are not fighting for any reason at all. These are a bunch of bloodthirsty daredevils whose only interest in causing unrest and mayhem. Apart from the deliberate conspiracies, lies and misinformation about a non-existent "Islamization agenda", has anyone with room temperature IQ really asked or understood what these criminals are fighting for?

Take for instance, Boko Haram. What do they want? I mean realistically, what do the Boko Haram terrorists want? They go to mosques where Muslims are praying and detonate bombs there. They send suicide bombers into marketplaces in a Muslim dominated area and ki'll dozens there. And someone somewhere believes in the lies that they are waging a Jihad to Islamize the country? These same criminals kidnap hundreds of schoolgirls, r'ape, marry, and trade them off, sl'aughter farmers and fishermen, and impose taxes on villagers, to achieve what end? Has the government truly analyzed the situation to understand who needs rehabilitation and how it can be done? Or are we just going to blindly assume that every criminal has a legitimate reason for agitation? In the past 10 years, some state governors have engaged these criminals and even offered them amnesty so that they won't go back to their evil ways. How well has that played out?
____________________________

Punch:

You called for the establishment of special courts to try kidnappers and bandits. How would these courts be structured differently from regular courts, and how can they ensure speedy but fair trials?

Sanusi Lafiagi:

During the time of the late president Muhammadu Buhari, there were calls for the establishment of special courts to try corruption cases. This is due to the fact that our courts are so overwhelmed with cases that people are beginning to lose patience and belief in the judicial system. I think that special courts for violent crimes like kidnapping and banditry are needed to speed up the judicial process and deliver swift judgments. The laws are already there, so it's not as if I am calling for the enactment of a different law. It's just that the process needs to be sped up to ensure that justice is not denied.

Punch:

Many human rights groups argue that “full weight of the law” including death penalty may not deter crime and could lead to miscarriages of justice. How do you respond to those concerns from both Islamic and constitutional perspectives?

Sanusi Lafiagi:

That's not entirely true. While there's no denial of the fact that no system anywhere in the world is perfect, that shouldn't be a basis to oppose the death penalty for violent criminals. Even in the US, convicted criminals are still being executed by lethal injection. Back in the days when public execution for armed robbers was being practised, crime rates in society were low. Go to Saudi Arabia where criminals are executed publicly through b'eheading, they have the lowest crime rate in the world. Go to China, and other Asian countries where drug traffickers and corrupt officials are executed, crime rates there are extremely low.

This is why even in the Shari'ah, the punishment for violent crimes is an equal retribution. This is clearly stated in Q5:45, Q2:194, Q2:178-179, Q42:40, and several others. To avoid miscarriage of justice, our judicial system should be sanitized in such a way that incompetence, bribery and corruption are completely eliminated from the system. The process should be thorough and transparent enough that it leaves no one in doubt. We all witnessed how a former lawmaker in Nigeria and his wife were sentenced in the UK for organ trafficking. The whole process was made so transparent that no one claimed that justice was miscarried. The accused must be given a fair trial, and his right protected. But the victim's right must also not be denied. Both the state and federal government must show willingness to end these violent crimes by signing the death sentence once the judicial processes are completed.

Punch:

Do you think your call for harsher punishment and special courts can restore public confidence in the justice system?

Sanusi Lafiagi:

Yes. Public trust and confidence in the judicial system can only be restored when perpetrators of violent crimes are seen facing justice. It helps the victims to heal quicker and removes the bad eggs from society. The longer it takes for the victims to receive justice, the longer their pain and disbelief in the system lasts. The only language that these criminals understand is the one spoken through the barrels of the guns. In fact, keeping them in prison has been identified by experts as one of the catalysts fueling this unrest. The criminals now use their members in prison as a bargaining chip in their negotiation with the government. So long as we keep giving them this leverage, the cycle of violent crimes will continue.

Punch:

As a scholar and Chief Imam of Al-Hikmah University, what role should religious leaders and institutions play in supporting victims of kidnapping while also advocating for justice against perpetrators?

Sanusi Lafiagi:

Religious leaders and institutions have a significant role to play in supporting victims of violent crimes to facilitate and ease their reintegration back into the society. This includes; emotional support to ease the pains of the ugly experience and help them navigate PTSD; spiritual support to draw them closer to God and strengthen their faith in Him; financial support to give them a new lease of life and make up for what was lost; as well as give them a sense of community and belonging. Islamic institutions can set up a GoFundMe for the victims using their platforms, and can also include them in the list of recipients of Zakāt and Sadaqah. Similarly, special sessions with professional counselors should be organized for them to support their healing and rehabilitation.

Punch:

Finally, if government refuses to set up these special courts and continues with rehabilitation, what do you think will be the long-term consequence for Nigeria’s security and for public trust in Islam’s concept of justice?

Sanusi Lafiagi:

Only an unwise person does the same thing over and over again and expects a different result. The long term consequence of continuing these rehabilitation programmes which have proved to be largely ineffective is the spread of violent crimes on a scale never witnessed before in the history of this nation. The government must be able to differentiate those who genuinely laid down arms out of remorse from those who did so because they were overpowered by the military. In fact, there's a third group that must be equally identified. Some people have noted that the criminals oftentimes pretend to be repentant in order to gain access to critical information, including troops strength and deployment, and feed the information to their commanders in the bush. In other words, they are spies enjoying amnesty while sabotaging the efforts of the government in restoring peace.

This country has lost so many lives and resources fighting insurgency. This cycle of violent crimes must not be allowed to continue. The solution lies in defeating them both on the battlefield and in the courts by sending them to the gallows or firing squad once the judicial process is concluded. As for those who willingly submit themselves to the authority out of remorse and not because they were overpowered, they should be properly profiled and rehabilitated. In addition, this rehabilitation does not deny the victims of their crimes of their rights to justice. While the death sentence can be waived in lieu of their repentance, the Diya (blood money) payable to the heirs of their victims as well as other damages must be paid either by them or by the government.

Sanusi Lafiagi PhD

larride may God grant you complete healing and speedy recovery. Stay strong, this too shall pass.

TemporaryHansel:
Finance minister has been changed, so why are contractors still not getting funds released to them?

Wale Edun was never the problem you can't pay what you weren't authorized to pay, there's no cash backing

The infamous budget padding that made it into our lexicon during late fPMB was an example of projects being inserted by various committee members of NASS

BlueRayDick:
🤦‍♂️

Constituency project(s) inserted by a NASS member who is a member of oversight committee, if they dont allow for such insertion your budget may not get approved. This is how legislators get to fund their constituency projects by inserting the said projects into National Budget

Some things may seem unbelievable but they're true for those who are privy to certain information. Things are happening that are unspeakable, we only get to know some when sharing formular gets breached.

INTENSIFIED PRESSURE BY OPERATION HADIN KAI LEADS TO SURRENDER OF TOP TERRORIST LEADERS AS MORE ABANDON CAMPS AMID BOOSTED OPERATIONS

The Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has continued to record significant operational successes in the ongoing counter terrorism campaign against Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists through sustained operations backed by credible, timely and actionable intelligence.

In another major breakthrough, a fresh group of top ISWAP terrorist leaders have abandoned their enclaves and surrendered to troops within the North-East theatre of operations. Among those who surrendered are key members of the terrorist network due to relentless military pressure. They are currently in a secure location undergoing profiling, debriefing and other established procedures in accordance with extant operational protocols.

The development highlights the devastating impact of the sustained offensive by Operation HADIN KAI, which continues to dismantle terrorist strongholds, disrupt command and logistics structures, and deny the insurgents freedom of action across the theatre. Persistent military operations have continued to degrade the terrorists' combat capabilities while eroding confidence within their ranks and leadership. Within the last week alone, a total of 76 terrorist foot soldiers with some families surrendered to troops.

These operational gains demonstrate the effectiveness of the Nigerian military's comprehensive counter terrorism and counter insurgency strategy, combining precision combat operations, intelligence led engagements and coordinated joint efforts with partners.

Operation HADIN KAI remains resolute in its mission to completely defeat terrorism and restore lasting peace and security across the North-East. The pressure on the remaining terrorist elements will continue unabated until they are completely neutralised or forced to surrender.

MOHAMMED GONI
Captain
Acting Military Information Officer Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI
MAIDUGURI
28 June, 2026

The woman we usually buy garri from is a homeowner, she fries the garri by herself and you have to book in advance otherwise you won't see to buy. Another woman frying akara is also a homeowner and two of her children are in the university and she did all that with her akara frying business.
If you are in doubt you can send reccy to come and verify my claims.
We may not agree with the government but let's not shy away from the truth that the grant won't uplift some people even though it may look small to many of us.

GloriousGbola:
This is where we are today,unfortunately.

Eric Schmidt said, social media has amplified the voice of idiots

Ibime:
I just remembered Fofana which led me to CSO, then Sterling then Lukaku then Aubameyang

And i cursed Thomas Tuchel with his 100% transfer flop record

Add Saul Niguez and Denis Zakaria

ODODO HAILS TINUBU'S MASSIVE SECURITY INVESTMENTS IN KOGI STATE

Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to strengthening security architecture across Nigeria, particularly in Kogi State, saying the President's strategic investments and support for security agencies have significantly curtailed criminal activities in the state.

Governor Ododo made the remarks during an inspection visit to the newly established 21 Battalion Army Barracks in Agbeji-Anyigba, Kogi State, where he assessed operational facilities and interacted with military personnel stationed in the area.

fredoooooo:
Viel Spaß beim lernen

Seit letztes jahr

fredoooooo:
Natürlich

Gut. Ich lerne Deutsch

fredoooooo:
Trinkpause

Du sprichst Deutsch?

KOGI STATE GOVERNMENT

PRESS RELEASE

KOGI INTERCEPTS LARGE CACHE OF ARMS, FRUSTRATES PLANNED RETALIATORY ATTACK BY CRIMINAL ELEMENTS

1. The Kogi State Government wishes to inform the public that a major security operation has led to the interception of a cache of arms and ammunition believed to have been destined for criminal elements seeking to undermine the peace and security of Kogi State.

2. The successful operation was made possible through the synergy between local security operatives under the Kogi State security architecture, the Hybrid Forces operating under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), and the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, acting on credible intelligence.

3. Preliminary information indicates that security operatives received intelligence on the movement of arms and ammunition intended for delivery to criminal elements operating within and around Kogi State. The intelligence specifically identified a Golf 2 vehicle being used for the illicit movement of the weapons.

4. Acting swiftly on the intelligence, security agencies coordinated efforts across state boundaries and, in collaboration with the Sokoto State Government and security agencies in the State, tracked the movement of the suspects and their vehicle while maintaining close surveillance on their activities.

5. The operation culminated in the arrest of three suspects in Sokoto State after they had been placed under covert surveillance for over two weeks. Preliminary investigations have yielded valuable intelligence, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the arms trafficking syndicate seeking to fuel criminality in Kogi State.

6. Building on intelligence obtained through the operation, security operatives successfully intercepted the cache of arms and ammunition intended for criminal elements in Kogi State. The Golf 2 vehicle used for the illicit movement of the weapons was subsequently impounded in Kabba, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area. Recovered from the operation were two AK-47 rifles, several AK-47 magazines, sixty-seven rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, two pistols, twelve rounds of pistol ammunition and military uniforms suspected to have been intended for use by criminal elements in their operations.

7. Intelligence reports indicate that the intercepted weapons were part of an effort by criminal elements to replenish their depleted stock of arms after suffering major operational setbacks in recent weeks, particularly following the neutralisation of the notorious bandit leader, Kachalla Battijo, on June 10, 2026, after his failed attempt to kidnap students of Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu.

8. Anticipating possible retaliatory attacks and desperate attempts by fleeing criminals to regroup and rearm, the Kogi State Government immediately intensified intelligence gathering efforts, widened its intelligence dragnet, strengthened surveillance in strategic locations and deepened collaboration with security agencies across the country to ensure that any such plans would be detected and neutralized before execution.

9. Intelligence available to the State Government indicates that the remnant criminal elements trapped within forest locations in parts of the State have suffered significant operational setbacks and are experiencing acute shortages of arms and ammunition following sustained security operations against them.

10. Available intelligence further suggests that these desperate elements have been making frantic efforts to replenish their stockpile of weapons in a bid to fight their way out of the sustained security pressure being mounted against them by security forces.

11. The Kogi State Government, having anticipated such moves, acted ahead of the criminals by expanding its intelligence network, strengthening surveillance operations and working closely with security agencies to intercept the movement of arms and other logistics intended for criminal elements. The successful interception of the arms consignment is a clear demonstration that the Government remains several steps ahead of those seeking to threaten the peace of the State.

12. The interception validates the proactive security measures put in place by the administration of His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, FCA, and further demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-driven security operations in combating crime and insecurity.

13. The Government particularly commends the local security forces in Kogi State, the Hybrid Forces under the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the officers and men of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army for their professionalism, vigilance and seamless coordination. The operation underscores the growing effectiveness of intelligence-led security efforts, with the DSS playing a critical role in raising the bar for intelligence gathering and operational support.

14. The Kogi State Government also expresses profound appreciation to the Sokoto State Government, security agencies in Sokoto State, and all other stakeholders whose cooperation, prompt response and support contributed to the successful operation.

15. We equally commend the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for his strategic leadership and strong commitment to strengthening the nation's security architecture, as well as the heads of security agencies in Nigeria for their continued support, coordination and dedication to keeping our nation safe.

16. We commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for strengthening the capacities of sub-national governments and security institutions to protect lives and property at the grassroots. The support of Mr. President has been instrumental in the security gains being recorded across Kogi State.

17. The interception of this cache of arms sends a strong message to criminal networks that Kogi State is not and will never be a safe haven for terrorism, banditry, kidnapping or any form of criminality. Criminals operating within and around the State should understand that the walls are closing in on them and that every effort to evade justice will be met with greater determination by security forces.

18. While investigations into the intercepted arms and the activities of the criminal syndicate continue, citizens are assured that there is no cause for alarm. Security agencies have intensified operations and surveillance across strategic locations in the State to ensure the continued safety of residents.

19. The administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo remains committed to deploying every lawful means, including intelligence gathering, technological support, community engagement and inter-agency collaboration, to sustain the gains already recorded in the fight against insecurity.

20. We urge citizens to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely and credible information to security agencies. Together, we shall continue to frustrate the plans of criminals and preserve the peace, security and prosperity of Kogi State.

Kingsley Femi Fanwo
Hon. Commissioner for Information and Communications
Kogi State

22nd June, 2026

KOGI STATE GOVERNMENT

PRESS RELEASE

KOGI INTERCEPTS LARGE CACHE OF ARMS, FRUSTRATES PLANNED RETALIATORY ATTACK BY CRIMINAL ELEMENTS

1. The Kogi State Government wishes to inform the public that a major security operation has led to the interception of a cache of arms and ammunition believed to have been destined for criminal elements seeking to undermine the peace and security of Kogi State.

2. The successful operation was made possible through the synergy between local security operatives under the Kogi State security architecture, the Hybrid Forces operating under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), and the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, acting on credible intelligence.

3. Preliminary information indicates that security operatives received intelligence on the movement of arms and ammunition intended for delivery to criminal elements operating within and around Kogi State. The intelligence specifically identified a Golf 2 vehicle being used for the illicit movement of the weapons.

4. Acting swiftly on the intelligence, security agencies coordinated efforts across state boundaries and, in collaboration with the Sokoto State Government and security agencies in the State, tracked the movement of the suspects and their vehicle while maintaining close surveillance on their activities.

5. The operation culminated in the arrest of three suspects in Sokoto State after they had been placed under covert surveillance for over two weeks. Preliminary investigations have yielded valuable intelligence, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the arms trafficking syndicate seeking to fuel criminality in Kogi State.

6. Building on intelligence obtained through the operation, security operatives successfully intercepted the cache of arms and ammunition intended for criminal elements in Kogi State. The Golf 2 vehicle used for the illicit movement of the weapons was subsequently impounded in Kabba, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area. Recovered from the operation were two AK-47 rifles, several AK-47 magazines, sixty-seven rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, two pistols, twelve rounds of pistol ammunition and military uniforms suspected to have been intended for use by criminal elements in their operations.

7. Intelligence reports indicate that the intercepted weapons were part of an effort by criminal elements to replenish their depleted stock of arms after suffering major operational setbacks in recent weeks, particularly following the neutralisation of the notorious bandit leader, Kachalla Battijo, on June 10, 2026, after his failed attempt to kidnap students of Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu.

8. Anticipating possible retaliatory attacks and desperate attempts by fleeing criminals to regroup and rearm, the Kogi State Government immediately intensified intelligence gathering efforts, widened its intelligence dragnet, strengthened surveillance in strategic locations and deepened collaboration with security agencies across the country to ensure that any such plans would be detected and neutralized before execution.

9. Intelligence available to the State Government indicates that the remnant criminal elements trapped within forest locations in parts of the State have suffered significant operational setbacks and are experiencing acute shortages of arms and ammunition following sustained security operations against them.

10. Available intelligence further suggests that these desperate elements have been making frantic efforts to replenish their stockpile of weapons in a bid to fight their way out of the sustained security pressure being mounted against them by security forces.

11. The Kogi State Government, having anticipated such moves, acted ahead of the criminals by expanding its intelligence network, strengthening surveillance operations and working closely with security agencies to intercept the movement of arms and other logistics intended for criminal elements. The successful interception of the arms consignment is a clear demonstration that the Government remains several steps ahead of those seeking to threaten the peace of the State.

12. The interception validates the proactive security measures put in place by the administration of His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, FCA, and further demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-driven security operations in combating crime and insecurity.

13. The Government particularly commends the local security forces in Kogi State, the Hybrid Forces under the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the officers and men of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army for their professionalism, vigilance and seamless coordination. The operation underscores the growing effectiveness of intelligence-led security efforts, with the DSS playing a critical role in raising the bar for intelligence gathering and operational support.

14. The Kogi State Government also expresses profound appreciation to the Sokoto State Government, security agencies in Sokoto State, and all other stakeholders whose cooperation, prompt response and support contributed to the successful operation.

15. We equally commend the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for his strategic leadership and strong commitment to strengthening the nation's security architecture, as well as the heads of security agencies in Nigeria for their continued support, coordination and dedication to keeping our nation safe.

16. We commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for strengthening the capacities of sub-national governments and security institutions to protect lives and property at the grassroots. The support of Mr. President has been instrumental in the security gains being recorded across Kogi State.

17. The interception of this cache of arms sends a strong message to criminal networks that Kogi State is not and will never be a safe haven for terrorism, banditry, kidnapping or any form of criminality. Criminals operating within and around the State should understand that the walls are closing in on them and that every effort to evade justice will be met with greater determination by security forces.

18. While investigations into the intercepted arms and the activities of the criminal syndicate continue, citizens are assured that there is no cause for alarm. Security agencies have intensified operations and surveillance across strategic locations in the State to ensure the continued safety of residents.

19. The administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo remains committed to deploying every lawful means, including intelligence gathering, technological support, community engagement and inter-agency collaboration, to sustain the gains already recorded in the fight against insecurity.

20. We urge citizens to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely and credible information to security agencies. Together, we shall continue to frustrate the plans of criminals and preserve the peace, security and prosperity of Kogi State.

Kingsley Femi Fanwo
Hon. Commissioner for Information and Communications
Kogi State

22nd June, 2026

Recently, when NAF struck a market used by ISWAP/BH as logistics hub they were cries and shouts led by Amnesty International that Nigeria Military are killing civilians. Also, when some of the suspects who were caught destroying properties during the end bad governance protests there were shouts even on this thread that FG is targeting minors.
Sometimes communities don't want to share intelligence with security operatives either due to fear or reverence of the actors involved

Rodrigo Duterte the former president of Philippines is in UN Detention Unit despite fighting drug cartels to a standstill over human rights abuses. His people voted him as Mayor of the city of Davao in absential but he's in Hague

JUST IN:
Zakari Garba a 37 years old man has been sentenced to death by hanging for his involvement in 2014 Nyanya Motor park bombing.

JUSTICE CAN ONLY BE DELAYED BUT CAN NEVER BE DENIED.

TROOPS RESCUE FOUR KIDNAP VICTIMS AS OFFENSIVE INTENSIFIES AGAINST NOTORIOUS BANDIT KINGPIN, CRIMINAL NETWORKS IN KATSINA

Troops of the Nigerian Army conducting Operation CLEAN SWEEP III have recorded another major breakthrough in ongoing counter-banditry operations in Katsina State, rescuing another four kidnapped victims during sustained offensive operations targeting the notorious bandit leader, Kachalla Muhammadu Fulani and his criminal network.

On Tuesday, 16 June 2026, troops of 17 Brigade Strike Group/Quick Response Force supported by troops of 8 Division Special Forces launched a deliberate offensive to clear terrorists' hideouts in Fafu Village along the Matazu-Musawa axis. Prior to the ground assault, the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA conducted Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions over the area, enabling troops to accurately identify and dominate the terrorists' enclave.

Troops made contact with the terrorists and engaged them with overwhelming firepower. Unable to withstand the troops' aggressive offensive, the terrorists fled in disarray and abandoned their camp and captives. Subsequent exploitation of the camp led to the rescue of four abducted victims.

The rescued victims were immediately evacuated to Forward Operating Base Matazu where they were received by the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General BP Koughna, who reassured them of their safety and reaffirmed the commitment of troops to restoring peace and security across the state. Sime of the victims, who sustained gunshot wounds inflicted by their abductors during captivity, received immediate medical attention and were subsequently moved to the Federal Teaching Hospital Katsina for expert medical management.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the victims were abducted on 14 April 2026 from Sabon Sara along the Matazu-Karaduwa Road and were held in captivity alongside the late Major General Rabe Abubakar (rtd) and his wife.

Troops remain on the trail of Kachalla Muhammadu Fulani and other criminal elements and will continue to sustain aggressive operations until all those responsible for acts of terror against innocent citizens are apprehended or neutralised. The Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies remains committed to ensuring that terrorists and bandits have no safe haven.

reccy:
Audio something. Show us the pictures. Nah to dy blow grammar upandan nah en Dem sabi

You can join the Nigerian Army or the bandit camp to confirm whether its true or not

GOVERNOR ODODO BRIEFS NSA ON ELIMINATION OF TERRORIST KINGPIN BATTIJO, HAILS TINUBU'S SECURITY LEADERSHIP

Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, on Monday visited the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to formally brief him on the successful operation that led to the elimination of notorious terrorist and bandit kingpin, Kachalla Ibrahim Battijo, in Kogi State.

During the meeting, Governor Ododo gave a detailed account of the intelligence-driven operation that culminated in the neutralization of the criminal leader, describing it as a product of effective collaboration among federal security agencies, local security structures and the Kogi State Government.

The Governor disclosed that highly sophisticated intelligence assets were deployed to monitor the movements and activities of Battijo and his gang, leading to the discovery of their plot to attack and abduct students writing the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination at Government Secondary School, Iluke, in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area.

Acting swiftly on credible intelligence, the Kogi State Government relocated the students from a vulnerable location to the heart of Iluke town to guarantee their safety while they continued their examinations.

Despite the proactive intervention by government and security agencies, Battijo and his gang launched an attack on the community in a desperate bid to execute their criminal mission. However, troops of the Nigerian military, working in synergy with other security agencies, the Kogi State Vigilante Service and local hunters, successfully repelled the attack. In the fierce gun battle that followed, the notorious bandit kingpin was neutralized, while his criminal network suffered devastating losses.

The operation against the terrorist network did not end with the elimination of Battijo. In a follow-up clearance mission, troops of the Nigerian Army led by the Commander, 12 Brigade, Brigadier General Karim Sidi, successfully exhumed the remains of the slain terrorist leader for further examination and intelligence purposes.

The operation also led to the neutralization of additional members of Battijo's gang who had been hiding around the area following the initial encounter. Security forces had earlier recovered more than fifteen bodies of bandits during clearance operations, underscoring the scale of the victory recorded against the criminal group and confirming the operation as a comprehensive success.

Governor Ododo expressed profound appreciation to the National Security Adviser, the Service Chiefs, the Inspector General of Police and the Director-General of the Department of State Services, for their support and for the gallantry displayed by officers and men deployed to Kogi State.

He particularly commended the courage, patriotism and sacrifice of personnel of the Kogi State Vigilante Service and the Hunters Group, whose local knowledge and commitment contributed significantly to the success of the operation.

The Governor also expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering commitment to strengthening Nigeria's security architecture and providing the leadership required to confront terrorism, banditry and other security threats across the country.

According to the Governor, the successful elimination of Battijo and the sustained gains being recorded against criminal elements across the nation are clear indications that President Tinubu's security initiatives are yielding measurable results.

He called on Nigerians to continue supporting the President and the nation's security institutions, stressing that collective resolve remains essential to making terrorism, banditry and violent criminality relics of the past.

Governor Ododo assured the National Security Adviser that the elimination of Battijo has further strengthened public confidence in the state's security architecture and reinforced the determination of his administration to sustain the offensive against criminal elements.

"Kogi State will never be a safe haven for terrorists, bandits or any criminal group. We will continue to work with federal security agencies to protect our people and ensure that our territory is not used as a launching pad for attacks on neighbouring states," the Governor said.

Responding, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, described the elimination of Kachalla Battijo as a major breakthrough in Nigeria's fight against terrorism and banditry.

The NSA, who described Battijo as one of the most dangerous terrorists operating in the country, said his neutralization represents a major milestone in ongoing national efforts to restore peace and security across Nigeria.

He commended Governor Ododo for his commitment, courage and uncompromising resolve in tackling insecurity, noting that the feat demonstrates the effectiveness of strong collaboration between state governments and federal security institutions.

Mallam Ribadu emphasized the strategic importance of Kogi State to Nigeria's security architecture, given its unique position as a gateway state that shares boundaries with nine states and the Federal Capital Territory. He assured the Governor of the continued support of the Federal Government and security agencies in sustaining gains already recorded in the fight against criminality.

The National Security Adviser further noted that the successful operation reflects the effectiveness of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's security reforms and the growing synergy among security institutions under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Governor Ododo was accompanied on the visit by senior security officials and the State Security Adviser.

The successful elimination of Kachalla Battijo, the recovery of more than fifteen bandits' bodies, the subsequent recovery of the terrorist leader's remains, and the neutralization of additional members of his gang represent one of the most significant counter-terrorism successes recorded in recent times. The achievement underscores the effectiveness of the collaboration between the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Kogi State Government under Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo in the ongoing effort to secure lives, protect communities and restore lasting peace across Nigeria.

Kingsley Femi Fanwo
Hon. Commissioner for Information and Communications
Kogi State

15th June, 2026

DHQ PRESS RELEASE

TROOPS RESCUE WIFE OF FORMER DIRECTOR DEFENCE INFORMATION FROM BANDITS

Troops of the Nigerian Army with the support of the Nigerian Air Force have successfully rescued Mrs Amina Abubakar, wife of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar and former Director Defence Information, who was abducted by bandits alongside her husband a few weeks ago.

The rescue operation followed intensified search-and-rescue efforts conducted by troops of Operation FASAN YAMMA. During sustained offensive operations and pressure mounted on the criminal elements, troops made contact with the bandits at Tunga Village, leading to the successful recovery of Mrs Abubakar.

In the course of the encounter, the bandits shot Mrs Abubakar before abandoning her and fleeing due to the overwhelming pressure from advancing troops.

Mrs Abubakar was immediately evacuated and is currently receiving medical attention at a military hospital, where she is responding to treatment.

The leadership of the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain committed to ensuring her full recovery and is providing all necessary support to her family during this difficult period.

Troops will continue ongoing operations to track down and neutralise the perpetrators, while intensifying efforts to rid affected communities of terrorists not just in Katsina but in the entire nation.

SAMAILA UBA
Major General
Director Defence Information
15 June 2026

OPERATION FANSAN YAMMA: TROOPS DESTROY TERRORIST HIDEOUTS AS OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS COMMENCE IN KATSINA STATE

Troops of Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA (JTF NW OPFY) have commenced a deliberate offensive operation, code-named Operation CLEAN SWEEP III, targeting terrorist and bandit elements operating within Matazu Local Government Area and adjoining communities in Katsina State.

The operation was launched following the unfortunate incident that led to the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who was abducted alongside his wife by suspected terrorists and bandits in the area. The operation is aimed at locating and neutralizing the perpetrators of the heinous act, dismantling criminal networks and restoring security within the affected communities.

Since the commencement of the operation on 14 June 2026, troops have conducted aggressive fighting patrols, intelligence-led raids, cordon-and-search operations and clearance missions across identified criminal hideouts and suspected terrorist enclaves within the Joint Operations Area (JOA).

In the course of the ongoing offensive, troops recorded notable successes in the Dikkawa Hills general area and surrounding communities. Troops conducted clearance operations on identified terrorist hideouts in Adua, Nasarawa and Karaduwa areas, where several criminal enclaves were searched and combed. During the operations, terrorists' life-support structures and logistics bases were discovered and destroyed, further degrading the criminals' ability to operate within the area.

The operation is being conducted in close collaboration with sister services, other security agencies and local stakeholders whose support continues to contribute significantly to ongoing efforts aimed at improving security within the state.

The Theatre Command JTF OPFY wishes to reassure the good people of Matazu Local Government Area and neighbouring communities that troops remain committed to protecting law-abiding citizens and denying terrorists and bandits freedom of action within the region.

Members of the public are encouraged to continue providing credible and timely information that could assist security agencies in tracking and apprehending terrorists and criminal elements. All information received will be treated with utmost confidentiality. Troops will continue to sustain pressure on criminal elements until the operational objectives are fully achieved.

Further updates will be provided as the operation progresses.

ALIYU DANJA
Lieutenant Colonel
Media Information Officer
Joint Task Force (North West)
Operation FANSAN YAMMA
15 June 2026

TROOPS APPREHEND 46 SUSPECTED ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS IN OGUN STATE

Troops of the Nigerian Army, in conjunction with DSS, NSCDC and Immigration, have apprehended 46 suspected illegal immigrants residing in Ogun State following actionable intelligence.

The operation which commenced on 11 June 2026, led to the arrest of the suspects at various locations within Ijebu Imushin, Ijebu Ilese and surrounding communities during a targeted security operation. Preliminary investigations revealed that the individuals had allegedly been residing in the state for approximately six months without valid immigration documentation.

During interrogation, the suspects claimed to be merchants and workers affiliated with QNet, an online marketing platform involved in the sale of various commodities.

The arrested individuals comprise 18 nationals of Burkina Faso, 23 nationals of Côte d'Ivoire, 4 nationals of Togo and 1 national of Senegal. Among them are 36 males and 10 females.

The suspects have since been handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Ogun State Command, for further investigation and appropriate administrative action in accordance with extant laws.

Speaking on the operation, the Commander, 35 Artillery Brigade, Brigadier General Friday Oguche Onu, commended the troops and collaborating security agencies for their professionalism and vigilance. He also urged residents to remain security conscious and promptly report suspicious activities and individuals to relevant security agencies.

The successful operation underscores the commitment of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to combating illegal migration, enhancing internal security, and safeguarding national interests.

Idereghi Samuel Akari
Major
Assistant Director Army Public Relations
35 Artillery Brigade
14 June 2026

OPERATION HADIN KAI FRUSTRATES COORDINATED TERRORIST ATTACKS, RESCUES CIVILIANS, DISRUPTS INSURGENT LOGISTICS NETWORKS

The Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has continued to consolidate its operational dominance across the North-East, recording significant successes against Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists through a series of well-coordinated offensive and security operations conducted between 11 and 12 June 2026. The operations resulted in the rescue of abducted civilians, arrest of suspected terrorist collaborators and logistics suppliers, recovery of arms and operational stores, as well as the decisive defeat of multiple terrorist attempts to undermine security within the theatre.

In a major humanitarian and operational success, troops of Sector 2, while conducting fighting and perimeter clearance patrols around the Amuda general area on 11 June 2026, rescued three abducted children identified as Ali Usman (15), Umar Ibrahim Abubakar (15), and Fatima Abubakar (12). Preliminary investigations revealed that the victims escaped from terrorist enclaves at SAHA and CHINENE in the Mandara Mountains following sustained military offensives that have continued to degrade and dislocate insurgent strongholds across the region. After profiling and documentation, the children were safely reunited with community leaders in Ngoshe. Similarly, on 12 June 2026, troops of Sector 3 swiftly responded to a terrorist kidnapping attempt along the Damasak–Gubio Main Supply Route and successfully rescued six civilians abandoned by fleeing terrorists following aggressive troop pursuit around the Kareto area.

In further demonstrations of operational effectiveness, troops of 68 Battalion at Mallam Fatori thwarted an attempted terrorist reconnaissance mission after successfully ambushing suspected ISWAP scouts and recovering an AK-47 rifle with a loaded magazine containing 31 rounds of ammunition. Concurrently, troops of Sector 3 operating at Check Point 61 intercepted eleven suspects travelling in two civilian vehicles under suspicious circumstances. Preliminary investigations linked the individuals to attempts at recovering vehicles belonging to known terrorist logistics collaborators previously sighted supporting insurgent activities around Ali Sheriffti. In a related operation, troops of Sector 2 at Mandaragirau arrested a suspected terrorist logistics courier, Malahi Liman Muhammad, along the Mandaragirau–Sabon Gari axis. Recovered items included large quantities of herbicides, blankets, salt, food supplies, mobile phones, and other materials suspected to be intended for terrorist sustenance and operational support. The suspects are currently undergoing further investigation.

The resilience and combat superiority of OPHK troops were once again demonstrated in the early hours of 12 June 2026 when heavily armed Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists mounted a coordinated three-pronged attack against troops of Sector one at the COP Bridge location. The terrorists, operating with four gun trucks and several motorcycles, launched simultaneous assaults from the Wurge, Manawaji, and Kinuba axes. However, the attack was decisively repelled through the gallant resistance of troops, reinforced by timely artillery and mortar fire support. The terrorists were forced into a disorderly retreat, abandoning large quantities of combat equipment. Subsequent exploitation operations along their withdrawal route led to the recovery of three Rocket Propelled Grenade launchers, seven High Explosive Anti-Tank rounds, and other unexploded ordnance. Ground traces, including dragged bloodstains and body marks, indicated significant enemy casualties during the failed assault. Regrettably, one soldier sustained injuries from RPG fragments and is currently receiving medical attention.

These latest successes further underscore the effectiveness of OPHK’s ongoing offensive operations and intelligence-driven campaign aimed at dismantling terrorist networks, denying insurgents freedom of action, and protecting civilian populations. The cumulative impact of sustained ground offensives, aggressive patrols, precision engagements, and robust intelligence exploitation continues to weaken terrorist capabilities, disrupt their logistics architecture, and compel them into increasingly desperate and unsuccessful attacks. The Military High Command commends the courage, professionalism, and unwavering commitment of the troops and reassures the public that OPHK remains firmly in control of the operational environment and resolute in its mission to achieve lasting peace, security, and stability across the North-East.

Haruna M. Sani
Lieutenant Colonel
Acting Media Information Officer
Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East)
Operation HADIN KAI
13 June 2026

Major-General Rabe Abubakar: The Wounds We Share
By Gimba Kakanda
I have just read the statement by the Katsina State Government confirming the passing of Major-General Rabe Abubakar, rtd, a former military spokesman, while in captivity. Even though the statement says that “the deceased… died a natural death from complications of diabetes and hypertension,” this does not erase the horror of the circumstances in which he spent his final days. What haunts us is not only the manner of his passing, but the tragedy of a life of service ending in the hands of criminals who have exploited the dysfunctions of our society.

What happened to the General is a tragedy of immeasurable dimension. To return from a career that required putting one’s life on the line for one’s country, only to become a captive of ragtag criminals, is a fate no patriot deserves. It is a cruel reminder that this weather of insecurity is one we all breathe and feel. It bears our names, our faces, our families, and the histories of service behind its victims.

There is no dignified way to avoid the truth that, as a nation and as a government, we have let down the General and many others who have met similar fates. This does not take away from the efforts I know were ongoing to secure his release or rescue, nor from the renewed operations and proactive steps being taken to confront these criminal networks. But grief must never be managed with denial. Something more radical, more coordinated, and more sustained must be done to break this chain of tragic events. Contrary to the assumptions of some, nobody is immune.

What happened to the General is a cautionary tale for all of us in government today. The General, who once served in one of the most protected institutions in the country, could never have imagined such an ending. That is why it remains baffling when anyone assumes that those in public office are insulated from the failures and fractures of the nation. The same roads, the same communities, the same future, and the same consequences await us all.

As a northerner, I am doubly troubled by the direction in which our region has been dragged. No honest person can claim ignorance of how we got here. If we are even more honest, we must admit that the untrained, abandoned, and hopeless children on our streets are being turned into cannon fodder for present and future dysfunctions. Even if banditry and terrorism are defeated, a vulnerable demographic left without education, discipline, opportunity, or hope will remain available for other invidious agendas against the Nigerian state.

This is the part that should frighten us most. We once spoke of building human capital. Today, too many of our people are trapped in the desperate arithmetic of survival.

The government has the primary and non-negotiable responsibility to protect lives and property. But no government policy, however well designed, can fully overcome a society that refuses to confront parental irresponsibility, the abandonment of children, hostility to education in some communities, and the casual normalisation of neglect. Security is not sustained by bullets alone. It is sustained by schools, families, values, livelihoods, justice, and a population civilised enough to reject the temptations of nihilism.

And yet, we cannot afford to lose hope. Despair is exactly what these criminals want to manufacture. They want citizens to stop believing in the possibility of order, to stop trusting the state, and to stop imagining a country that can still be rescued. We must refuse them that victory. We must mourn the dead, demand better from the living, and insist that the Nigerian state still has the duty and capacity to reclaim every inch of its authority.

May Allah forgive Major-General Rabe Abubakar, rtd, grant him Aljannatul Firdaus, and comfort his family. My condolences also go to all families who have lost loved ones to this madness. May their grief not be in vain, and may our country find the courage to end this tragedy.

Major-General Rabe Abubakar: The Wounds We Share
By Gimba Kakanda
I have just read the statement by the Katsina State Government confirming the passing of Major-General Rabe Abubakar, rtd, a former military spokesman, while in captivity. Even though the statement says that “the deceased… died a natural death from complications of diabetes and hypertension,” this does not erase the horror of the circumstances in which he spent his final days. What haunts us is not only the manner of his passing, but the tragedy of a life of service ending in the hands of criminals who have exploited the dysfunctions of our society.

What happened to the General is a tragedy of immeasurable dimension. To return from a career that required putting one’s life on the line for one’s country, only to become a captive of ragtag criminals, is a fate no patriot deserves. It is a cruel reminder that this weather of insecurity is one we all breathe and feel. It bears our names, our faces, our families, and the histories of service behind its victims.

There is no dignified way to avoid the truth that, as a nation and as a government, we have let down the General and many others who have met similar fates. This does not take away from the efforts I know were ongoing to secure his release or rescue, nor from the renewed operations and proactive steps being taken to confront these criminal networks. But grief must never be managed with denial. Something more radical, more coordinated, and more sustained must be done to break this chain of tragic events. Contrary to the assumptions of some, nobody is immune.

What happened to the General is a cautionary tale for all of us in government today. The General, who once served in one of the most protected institutions in the country, could never have imagined such an ending. That is why it remains baffling when anyone assumes that those in public office are insulated from the failures and fractures of the nation. The same roads, the same communities, the same future, and the same consequences await us all.

As a northerner, I am doubly troubled by the direction in which our region has been dragged. No honest person can claim ignorance of how we got here. If we are even more honest, we must admit that the untrained, abandoned, and hopeless children on our streets are being turned into cannon fodder for present and future dysfunctions. Even if banditry and terrorism are defeated, a vulnerable demographic left without education, discipline, opportunity, or hope will remain available for other invidious agendas against the Nigerian state.

This is the part that should frighten us most. We once spoke of building human capital. Today, too many of our people are trapped in the desperate arithmetic of survival.

The government has the primary and non-negotiable responsibility to protect lives and property. But no government policy, however well designed, can fully overcome a society that refuses to confront parental irresponsibility, the abandonment of children, hostility to education in some communities, and the casual normalisation of neglect. Security is not sustained by bullets alone. It is sustained by schools, families, values, livelihoods, justice, and a population civilised enough to reject the temptations of nihilism.

And yet, we cannot afford to lose hope. Despair is exactly what these criminals want to manufacture. They want citizens to stop believing in the possibility of order, to stop trusting the state, and to stop imagining a country that can still be rescued. We must refuse them that victory. We must mourn the dead, demand better from the living, and insist that the Nigerian state still has the duty and capacity to reclaim every inch of its authority.

May Allah forgive Major-General Rabe Abubakar, rtd, grant him Aljannatul Firdaus, and comfort his family. My condolences also go to all families who have lost loved ones to this madness. May their grief not be in vain, and may our country find the courage to end this tragedy.

KOGI STATE GOVERNMENT

PRESS RELEASE

KOGI GOVERNMENT BANS OKADA OPERATIONS IN BUNU HINTERLANDS, BANS NIGHT TRAVEL ON STATE ROADS AFTER 7PM, SHUTS MARKETS AND RESTRICTS FUEL SALES TO CUT OFF BANDITS' SUPPLY NETWORK

1. The Kogi State Government has announced a series of immediate security measures aimed at cutting off logistics and supply routes to criminal elements currently under sustained military and security pressure in parts of Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area.

2. Following a comprehensive review of ongoing security operations in Bunu District after the recent terrorist attack on Iluke community which was successfully repelled, intelligence and operational reports indicate that significant progress has been made by Joint Security Forces. Several of the attackers have been confirmed neutralized, while many others sustained varying degrees of injuries and are currently trapped within forested areas across the district as security clearance operations continue.

3. To consolidate these gains and deny the criminals access to food, water, medication, fuel and other essential supplies, the Kogi State Government has approved the immediate ban on the use of commercial motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, within designated hinterland corridors of Bunu District.

4. The affected areas include the corridor stretching from Idoyi Bunu through Illah Bunu, Iluke Bunu and Kiri, as well as the route from Iluke Bunu through Odai Bunu, Igbo Bunu, Ilogun Bunu, Olle Bunu, Ayede Bunu, Oke-Ofin Bunu and Edumo Bunu. The restrictions shall also apply to the Ayede Bunu, Aherin, Eshi and Ighun Bunu corridor and all other routes within the Bunu hinterlands.

5. Intelligence available to security agencies has revealed that motorcycle operators constitute a major channel through which food items, water, drugs and other logistics are transported to bandits hiding within the forests. Investigations have also established that some criminal elements utilize motorcycle transportation to conduct reconnaissance and gather intelligence on targeted communities before launching attacks.

6. Consequently, any motorcycle rider found transporting passengers, goods or supplies along the designated routes shall be apprehended and dealt with in accordance with the provisions of the Kogi State Anti-Terrorism Law.

7. The Motorcycle Operators Association of Nigeria (MOAN) is hereby directed to immediately sensitize all its members on this directive, which takes effect from today, Saturday, June 13, 2026.

8. In addition, all markets located along the affected corridors shall remain closed until further notice. Mobile medicine vendors and distributors are also directed to suspend the transportation and sale of drugs on motorcycles within the affected areas for the duration of the operation.

9. Furthermore, the sale of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and Automotive Gas Oil (Diesel) in jerricans is hereby prohibited across the entirety of Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area with immediate effect.

10. As part of measures to strengthen security across the state and deny criminal elements the opportunity to operate under the cover of darkness, the Kogi State Government hereby announces a ban on night travel on all state-owned roads across Kogi State. Consequently, all movements on state roads must cease by 7:00 p.m. daily until further notice. Any person found travelling on a state-owned road after 7:00 p.m. shall be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

11. The Kogi State Government wishes to reiterate that it possesses credible intelligence regarding individuals collaborating with criminal elements and providing support to their activities. Appropriate actions are already being taken against such persons in line with extant laws.

12. While the Government acknowledges that these measures may impose temporary inconveniences on law-abiding citizens, the protection of lives and communities remains paramount. Extraordinary security challenges often require difficult but necessary decisions, and these directives are designed solely to safeguard the people and secure lasting peace across the affected areas. The Government wishes to assure residents that the security situation will be reviewed every two weeks to assess the impact of these measures and determine the appropriate next line of action regarding the restrictions, based on the progress and successes recorded by security agencies in ongoing operations.

13. The Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has directed all security agencies to ensure strict enforcement of these measures and full compliance by all residents and stakeholders.

14. The Government further warns that any individual found aiding, supplying, harbouring or collaborating with terrorists in any form shall be treated as an accomplice to terrorism and prosecuted accordingly.

15. The Kogi State Government calls on residents to cooperate fully with security agencies, remain vigilant and continue to provide credible information that will assist ongoing operations aimed at permanently eliminating criminal elements from the state.

Signed:

Kingsley Femi Fanwo
Hon. Commissioner for Information and Communications
Kogi State

13th June, 2026

KOGI STATE GOVERNMENT

PRESS RELEASE

KOGI GOVERNMENT BANS OKADA OPERATIONS IN BUNU HINTERLANDS, BANS NIGHT TRAVEL ON STATE ROADS AFTER 7PM, SHUTS MARKETS AND RESTRICTS FUEL SALES TO CUT OFF BANDITS' SUPPLY NETWORK

1. The Kogi State Government has announced a series of immediate security measures aimed at cutting off logistics and supply routes to criminal elements currently under sustained military and security pressure in parts of Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area.

2. Following a comprehensive review of ongoing security operations in Bunu District after the recent terrorist attack on Iluke community which was successfully repelled, intelligence and operational reports indicate that significant progress has been made by Joint Security Forces. Several of the attackers have been confirmed neutralized, while many others sustained varying degrees of injuries and are currently trapped within forested areas across the district as security clearance operations continue.

3. To consolidate these gains and deny the criminals access to food, water, medication, fuel and other essential supplies, the Kogi State Government has approved the immediate ban on the use of commercial motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, within designated hinterland corridors of Bunu District.

4. The affected areas include the corridor stretching from Idoyi Bunu through Illah Bunu, Iluke Bunu and Kiri, as well as the route from Iluke Bunu through Odai Bunu, Igbo Bunu, Ilogun Bunu, Olle Bunu, Ayede Bunu, Oke-Ofin Bunu and Edumo Bunu. The restrictions shall also apply to the Ayede Bunu, Aherin, Eshi and Ighun Bunu corridor and all other routes within the Bunu hinterlands.

5. Intelligence available to security agencies has revealed that motorcycle operators constitute a major channel through which food items, water, drugs and other logistics are transported to bandits hiding within the forests. Investigations have also established that some criminal elements utilize motorcycle transportation to conduct reconnaissance and gather intelligence on targeted communities before launching attacks.

6. Consequently, any motorcycle rider found transporting passengers, goods or supplies along the designated routes shall be apprehended and dealt with in accordance with the provisions of the Kogi State Anti-Terrorism Law.

7. The Motorcycle Operators Association of Nigeria (MOAN) is hereby directed to immediately sensitize all its members on this directive, which takes effect from today, Saturday, June 13, 2026.

8. In addition, all markets located along the affected corridors shall remain closed until further notice. Mobile medicine vendors and distributors are also directed to suspend the transportation and sale of drugs on motorcycles within the affected areas for the duration of the operation.

9. Furthermore, the sale of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and Automotive Gas Oil (Diesel) in jerricans is hereby prohibited across the entirety of Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area with immediate effect.

10. As part of measures to strengthen security across the state and deny criminal elements the opportunity to operate under the cover of darkness, the Kogi State Government hereby announces a ban on night travel on all state-owned roads across Kogi State. Consequently, all movements on state roads must cease by 7:00 p.m. daily until further notice. Any person found travelling on a state-owned road after 7:00 p.m. shall be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

11. The Kogi State Government wishes to reiterate that it possesses credible intelligence regarding individuals collaborating with criminal elements and providing support to their activities. Appropriate actions are already being taken against such persons in line with extant laws.

12. While the Government acknowledges that these measures may impose temporary inconveniences on law-abiding citizens, the protection of lives and communities remains paramount. Extraordinary security challenges often require difficult but necessary decisions, and these directives are designed solely to safeguard the people and secure lasting peace across the affected areas. The Government wishes to assure residents that the security situation will be reviewed every two weeks to assess the impact of these measures and determine the appropriate next line of action regarding the restrictions, based on the progress and successes recorded by security agencies in ongoing operations.

13. The Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has directed all security agencies to ensure strict enforcement of these measures and full compliance by all residents and stakeholders.

14. The Government further warns that any individual found aiding, supplying, harbouring or collaborating with terrorists in any form shall be treated as an accomplice to terrorism and prosecuted accordingly.

15. The Kogi State Government calls on residents to cooperate fully with security agencies, remain vigilant and continue to provide credible information that will assist ongoing operations aimed at permanently eliminating criminal elements from the state.

Signed:

Kingsley Femi Fanwo
Hon. Commissioner for Information and Communications
Kogi State

13th June, 2026

“As I speak from yesterday till now we have picked most of them, as I speak to you now we've picked another Two of them and let me tell you we don't have department of arrest once we get you we will send you to where you belong.

This is our land. This is our state. We cannot leave it in the hands of criminals. Give us credible information. Do not harbour criminals, and do not provide them with logistics or support.

I am not afraid of any criminal or their sponsors. They will come, and we will deal with them.

Enough is enough.

We are not going to play politics with the lives of our people. I am ready to protect you all.”

~ Governor Usman Ododo of KOGI STATE

🎥VIDEO: “As I speak from yesterday till now we have picked most of them, as I speak to you now we've picked another Two of them and let me tell you we don't have department of arrest once we get you we will send you to where you belong.

This is our land. This is our state. We… pic.twitter.com/4o3gkjWN7u

— PATRIOTIC SOJA ($TSIR-MUNCHAN) (@Pressman2040) June 12, 2026