About 26 suspected kidnappers have been arrested in a joint operation involving the Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) and security agencies across Kogi West.
Jerry Omodara, Security Adviser to the Governor of Kogi state, who is retired Navy Commander, diclosed this, while, parading the suspects on Tuesday in Odo-Ape, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area.
According to Omodara, the successful operation spanned the past two weeks and was part of the State Government’s strategic efforts to sanitise Okunland from criminal elements that have long threatened the peace of the region.
“Not only were armed kidnappers arrested deep inside our forests, but even some local collaborators—those who have been supplying them with food, drinks, and other logistics—have also been caught,” he said.
He confirmed that during the latest raid in the Bunu forest, 16 heavily armed kidnappers, including some from Zamfara State, were apprehended. Some of the most dangerous among them have been handed over to the DSS for further investigation.
The traditional ruler of Aiyegunle-Igun Bunu, Oba Sunday Omodamori, commended the operation and expressed concern over a recent protest, which he described as “ill-timed” and “misleading.”
“These bandits travelled from places like Kebbi and Zamfara through Niger State to settle in our backyards. But the State Government and our brave local hunters have risen to the occasion,” the monarch said.
“The protest came after major breakthroughs had been recorded. It’s disheartening that some youths—perhaps disgruntled or compromised—chose to collaborate with criminals rather than support our local security efforts.”
Oba Omodamori urged the people of Okunland to look inward and address the role of collaborators who are sabotaging the peace efforts within their communities.
In his remarks, the Youth Leader of Aiyegunle-Igun, Ojo Olayinka, clarified that the recent protest was not organised by their community but rather by external elements within Bunu who hijacked the crowd on a market day to push a false narrative.
“Things have changed. While kidnappings used to be rampant, we are now seeing clear results from the government’s actions. Okunland is beginning to breathe again,” he noted.
The community praised the efforts of Governor Usman Ododo’s administration, security operatives, local vigilantes, and hunters, urging for sustained collaboration to fully secure Okunland.
“This is the time for unity. We must all support the security teams and expose those among us who are working with the enemy,” Olayinka added.
The cleanup operation is one of the most coordinated in recent times, and signals hope for the restoration of peace and safety across every corner of Okunland.
