Ibrahim idris former governor of kogi state.

Kogi State Gets Airport; Governor Ododo Signs Contract For Construction In Lokoja
The Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has signed contracts for the construction of an International airport in Lokoja, marking a major step towards infrastructural development in the State.

The governor formally presented the contract award letters to China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation and Gamji Nigeria Limited during a ceremony at the Government House.

The signing of the contracts is part the government’s efforts to boost economic growth, improve transportation, and attract investors to the state.

Governor Ododo describes the airport project as a Strategic investment aimed at enhancing connectivity and supporting trade and commerce.

The airport projects is located in Zariagi, area of lokoja the Kogi State capital.

Kogi Deploys Surveillance Drones to Boost Security Operations……

The Kogi State Government has unveiled two high-capacity PH20 surveillance drones to strengthen security and improve intelligence gathering across the state. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo presented the advanced equipment on Monday at the 12 Brigade Headquarters, Chari-Maigumeri Barracks in Lokoja. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to adopting modern security technologies to combat criminal activities, noting that the move aligns with global best practices and aims to enhance the safety of lives and property in Kogi State.
#fintternews

The Kogi state government has announced the situation of insecurity in the area.

Kogi Kidnappers Release Five Women After ₦12 Million Ransom, Three Remain Captive

Five women abducted from Olle-Bunu community in Kabba/Bunu LGA, Kogi State, have been released after residents raised ₦12 million to meet kidnappers’ demands. Despite their release, three other victims remain in captivity, raising safety concerns. Security forces recently dismantled a network of bandits in the area after a fierce midnight gun battle, repelling attackers and forcing them to retreat into the forest. The incident underscores ongoing insecurity challenges in Kogi communities.

#KogiInsecurity #KidnappingNigeria #CommunitySafety

Kidnappers Release Five Women in Kogi After ₦12m Ransom, Hold Three Others

Five women abducted by kidnappers in a Kogi State community have been released after a ₦12 million ransom was paid. However, three other victims are still being held in captivity as efforts continue to secure their freedom. Residents say fear remains high in the area amid growing concerns over insecurity.

Full story in comments section 👇🏽

#KogiState #Kidnapping #NigeriaSecurity #BreakingNews

Kogi Police Repel Midnight Bandit Attack, Neutralize Several Criminals in Forest Operations

A joint security team led by the Nigeria Police Force has dismantled a network of bandits and kidnappers in Kogi State following a fierce midnight attack. Officers of the Force Intelligence Bureau–Intelligence Response Team (FIB/IRT), supported by sister agencies, engaged heavily armed criminals during a clearance patrol. Videos show explosions and gunfire as the police repelled the attackers, forcing them to retreat with casualties. The operation, led by CP Muhammad Sanusi Ahmed, included airstrikes and ground offensives, signaling renewed momentum to reclaim forests terrorized by bandits, with authorities commending the professionalism and commitment of the security forces.

Retired Kogi Judges Cry Out Over Years of Neglect, Demand Immediate Payment of Outstanding Entitlements

Retired judges of Kogi State have raised alarms over years of neglect, urging the government to immediately pay their unpaid pensions, gratuities, allowances, and vehicle allocations. Having served decades and retired between 2021 and 2023, the judges described the non-payment as unjust, humiliating, and a violation of constitutional provisions. They warned that continued inaction undermines judicial dignity and independence, urging Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to intervene. Among the retirees are former Chief Judge John Bayo Olowosegun and ex-President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Yunusa Musa.

Bandit Attacks Empty Kogi Community, Turn Okunran Into Ghost Town

Residents of Okunran in Yagba West LGA, Kogi State, have abandoned their homes following rising insecurity, leaving the community deserted. A video obtained by SaharaReporters shows empty streets, abandoned houses and no signs of daily life, with locals describing the area as a ghost town. The development follows recent bandit attacks in the region, including the abduction of over 30 worshippers from an ECWA church in nearby Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu. Although some victims were later released after negotiations and ransom payments, fear has driven residents of Okunran to flee their homes.

Kogi Govt Demolishes Criminal Hideouts in Okene to Curb Rising Insecurity

Kogi State security operatives, backed by heavy equipment, have demolished buildings in Sambell community, Idoji, Okene, identified as criminal hideouts. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo approved the decisive operation after intelligence linked the area to kidnappers, armed robbers, and violent gangs terrorizing Okene, Ajaokuta, Lokoja, and nearby areas. Officials say dismantling these camps will make it harder for criminals to regroup, emphasizing zero tolerance for crime. Residents welcomed the move, calling it long overdue, while security operations continue across other hotspots.

#KogiSecurity #OkeneCrime #NigeriaNews

Suspected terrorists, believed to be bandits, have released 17 additional worshippers abducted from the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu, Kogi State, following sustained negotiations and the payment of ransom.

Naija News reports that the latest release came after weeks of engagement between the abductors, affected families and the Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu Development Association, which has been coordinating community efforts to secure the victims’ freedom.

According to Sahara Reporters, the Kogi State Government was not involved in the negotiations or the releases recorded so far.

The worshippers were abducted on Sunday, December 14, 2025, when armed men stormed the ECWA church during a church activity and whisked away more than 30 parishioners to an unknown location.

The incident sparked panic and outrage within the community and neighbouring areas.

Since the abduction, families of the victims, working with community leaders, have been engaged in prolonged and often difficult negotiations with the kidnappers in a bid to secure the release of their loved ones.

The first breakthrough came on January 1, 2026, when seven abducted worshippers were released after negotiations and the payment of a ransom reportedly put at ₦15 million.

However, the release was marred by tragedy as only four victims were freed alive, while three were confirmed dead – two reportedly died while in captivity, and one died after being rushed to the hospital following release.

Despite the tragic outcome, negotiations continued.

A local platform, Egbe Mekun, reported that three more victims were released on Monday, January 12.

This was followed by the release of 14 additional abductees on Tuesday, bringing the total number of worshippers freed so far to 24.

Community sources said 13 worshippers are still believed to be in the custody of the terrorists.

BREAKING: Terrorists Release 17 More ECWA Worshippers in Kogi, 13 Still Held

Suspected bandits in Kogi State have released 17 additional worshippers abducted from the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu after ransom negotiations. The abductions occurred on December 14, 2025, when armed men stormed the church, taking over 30 parishioners. Earlier releases included seven worshippers on January 1, though tragically, three of them died—two in captivity and one after hospitalisation. Subsequent releases on January 12 and 13 have brought the total freed to 24, while 13 remain in captivity. The Aiyetoro Kiri Bunu Development Association continues negotiations and appeals to the public for prayers and support to secure the safe release of the remaining victims. Residents urge urgent government intervention to end the ordeal and ensure the safety of their community.

PRESS RELEASE

Gov. Ododo Mourns Yakubu Mohammed, Co-Founder of Newswatch Magazine

Kogi State, 14 January 2026 – Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed, co-founder of Newswatch Magazine, and to the Nigerian Union of Journalists over the passing of the veteran journalist and elder statesman.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Ismaila Isah, Governor Ododo described Mohammed as a pioneer of modern investigative journalism in Nigeria and a proud son of Dekina Local Government Area, whose contributions to nation-building went beyond the media space.

“As a co-founder of the iconic Newswatch Magazine, Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed belonged to a rare generation of journalists who redefined courage, professionalism, and integrity in Nigerian journalism. He was a man whose influence shaped public discourse and strengthened accountability in our democracy,” the Governor said.

Governor Ododo highlighted Mohammed’s instrumental role in establishing Newswatch in the mid-1980s alongside Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu, and Dan Agbese, noting that the magazine marked a turning point in Nigerian media history by setting enduring standards for investigative reporting and editorial independence.

The Governor also acknowledged Mohammed’s distinguished public service record, including his tenure as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and his invaluable contributions to the development of Kogi State.

“His love for Kogi State was evident in his commitment to its growth and his willingness to serve in different capacities. He was a bridge-builder, a mentor to many, and a voice of conscience in national affairs,” Governor Ododo added.

He prayed that Almighty Allah grants the departed soul eternal rest and comforts his family and all who mourn his loss.

Wahala oo! Three Family Members Kidnapped for Over One Month in Kogi, Bandits Demand ₦20 Million Ransom

Taki community, Kabba/Bunu LGA, Kogi State, don dey shake as three members of the same family – Eniojukan Samuel, Eniojukan Bunmi, and Ekomitan Mary – don dey with kidnappers for more than one month after dem drag dem along Ihale–Taki Road. According to sources, bandits dey demand ₦20 million before dem go release them. Residents dey beg for urgent security intervention as road don dey dangerous, and repeated attacks dey terrorize locals. This case join long list of kidnapping wahala for Okunland, and people dey question why bandits dey operate freely while authorities dey slow to respond. Earlier, another victim, Dada Babatege, pay ₦6 million but bandits still refuse to free am, dey demand extra ₦14 million plus two Bajaj motorcycles. Communities dey fear, dey call government make dem act fast before more lives scatter. Wahala heavy oo, security no dey reach those wey need am most.

Yahaya Bello’s Case Still in Court — EFCC Chair Says “I’ve Done My Job”

EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, says the prosecution of former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, is already underway and firmly in the hands of the court.

Recall that Olukoyede had publicly vowed in April 2024 to resign if Bello was not prosecuted. Responding to public criticism over the slow pace of the case, he insisted that the EFCC has fulfilled its mandate.

“Is Yahaya Bello not being prosecuted? The case is in court. I have three cases against him. Am I the judge to decide conviction?” Olukoyede said during an interview on Channels TV.

According to him, Bello has been investigated and charged, stressing that the EFCC cannot control court proceedings.

Yahaya Bello is currently facing:
• A 16-count charge over alleged N110bn property fraud
• Another 19-count charge involving N80.2bn in fraud and money laundering

Both cases are before the Federal High Court.

The big question Nigerians are asking:
If the EFCC has “done its work,” why is this case still dragging — and how long will justice really take?

#YahayaBello #EFCC #NigeriaPolitics #CorruptionCases

Is Kogi Safe for Travelers Anymore? Bandits Abduct FCE Okene Lecturer on Kabba–Okene Road as Daylight Kidnappings and Highway Attacks Spread Across Yagba West

How safe are Nigeria’s highways, and can commuters still travel through Kogi State without fear? These questions have returned to the forefront following the abduction of a lecturer from the Federal College of Education (FCE), Okene, by armed bandits along the Kabba–Okene Road on January 9, 2026.

According to reports, gunmen ambushed commuters on the busy highway in a coordinated attack that left travelers in panic. Although Nigerian Army personnel stationed in Kabba responded swiftly and rescued several victims, the abductors succeeded in taking the FCE lecturer away. As of the time of reporting, the victim’s identity had not been officially disclosed.

The incident has further intensified fear among students, residents, and regular road users, many of whom rely on the Kabba–Okene route for daily travel. The road has become increasingly notorious for violent attacks, prompting renewed calls for stronger security measures from both the Kogi State Government and the Federal Government.

This latest abduction is not an isolated case. Earlier the same day, bandits reportedly struck along the Egbe–Okoloke Road in Yagba West Local Government Area, abducting a man identified as Lanlege in a daylight attack. Local sources said the victim was intercepted while going about his routine activities and forcibly taken away.

Residents also recall multiple kidnappings along the Omi-Odo Ara Road in Yagba West on December 30, 2025, where several people were reportedly abducted, though the exact number of victims remains unclear. These repeated incidents point to a troubling pattern of highway insecurity, daylight abductions, and the growing boldness of armed groups.

Community leaders and road users are once again demanding a heavier security presence on major highways, warning that continued inaction could cripple education, commerce, and mobility across the region. The abduction of a lecturer has also raised alarms within academic circles, with fears that insecurity may begin to disrupt schooling and professional life.

As banditry expands across key transport routes, many Nigerians are asking: Who is protecting travelers on these highways? Why are attacks increasing despite military presence? And how many more kidnappings must occur before decisive action is taken?

Is Kogi Becoming Unsafe for Daytime Travel? Bandits Kidnap Resident on Egbe-Okoloke Road as Yagba West Communities Demand Urgent Security Action

Is insecurity in Kogi State spiralling out of control, even in broad daylight? Fear gripped residents of Yagba West Local Government Area on Friday after suspected bandits abducted a man identified as Lanlege along the Egbe-Okoloke Road, a route increasingly notorious for criminal attacks.

According to local sources, the victim was travelling for his daily activities when he was intercepted and forcibly taken away by armed assailants. The fact that the kidnapping occurred during the day has heightened anxiety among commuters and nearby communities, who say that no time of day now feels safe on major roads in the area.

The incident has intensified long-standing concerns over rising insecurity in Yagba West, where residents report frequent kidnappings, killings, and the takeover of farmlands by criminal groups. Community members are calling for urgent government intervention, intensified patrols, and sustained security presence to prevent further attacks and to secure the release of the abducted victim. Motorists have also been advised to exercise extreme caution when using the Egbe-Okoloke Road pending improved security measures.

This latest attack comes amid growing public frustration across parts of Kogi State. Recently, youths in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area staged protests over worsening violence and the abandonment of communities, only to be dispersed by police using tear gas. Protesters carried placards reading “Bunuland Bleeds” and “Why Should We Ask for Permission to Live?,” lamenting that dozens of communities—such as Kayetoro, Kiri, and Ole—have been deserted due to repeated attacks and killings.

Residents say fear has forced many families to flee their ancestral homes, while others accuse authorities of failing to protect lives and property. Reports of multiple abductions on other routes, including the Omi-Odo Ara Road, have further deepened anxiety in Yagba West and surrounding areas.

As kidnappings continue and protests erupt over insecurity, many are asking urgent questions: How safe are Kogi’s highways? Why are criminal groups able to operate openly in the daytime? And what concrete steps will security agencies take to stop the growing wave of abductions before more lives are disrupted?

Bandits Kill Kogi Man After Collecting Over ₦1 Million Ransom, Motorcycle and Phone in Yagba West Kidnapping Case

Gunmen have reportedly killed a man identified as Agba in Egbe community, Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, despite collecting over ₦1 million in ransom, a Bajaj motorcycle, and a brand-new Samsung phone from the community. Agba was one of two emissaries sent to deliver the ransom for the release of a kidnapped resident, Mabe, who was abducted along the Egbe–Ogbe Road in December 2025. Although the kidnappers collected all demanded items and later freed Mabe, Agba was allegedly killed while in their custody after attempting to escape. The incident has heightened fears over rising insecurity in the area, following recent attacks in nearby communities that left residents dead and injured.

#KogiState #YagbaWest #Banditry #KidnappingInNigeria #Insecurity #BreakingNews #NigeriaNews #Ransom

EXCLUSIVE: Kogi Governor Usman Ododo to Spend Over N1 Billion on Government House Remodelling and Residential Apartments Amid 80% of Revenue Committed to Debt Servicing in 2026

SaharaReporters’ review of Kogi State’s 2026 draft budget reveals that Governor Usman Ododo plans to spend N1.015 billion on remodelling the Government House, alongside an additional N1 billion earmarked for minor capital works through direct labour. The budget also includes N500 million for constructing residential apartments for lawmakers and the head of legislative services on an “owner-occupier” basis, meaning the government-funded houses would belong to the recipients.
These expenditures come amid mounting concerns over Kogi State’s debt profile, with over 80% of the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) projected to be spent on debt servicing from 2025 to 2027. Analysts have raised alarms about the state’s weak revenue base, heavy reliance on federal allocations, and limited capacity to meet obligations without compromising essential services. Previous budget reviews highlighted that debt servicing overshadowed allocations to critical sectors like health, education, water resources, and public works, raising questions about fiscal prudence and transparency in the management of public resources.

#KogiState #GovernmentHouseRemodelling #UsmanOdodo #StateBudget2026 #DebtServicing #FiscalResponsibility #NigeriaNews

Passenger Boat Capsizes on Way to Abonnema in Rivers State, Panic Ensues as Commuters Rescued by Nearby Operators; No Casualties Reported

A passenger boat traveling to Abonnema in Akuku-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State capsized, causing panic among passengers mid-journey. Eyewitnesses confirmed that all occupants were safely rescued by nearby boat operators, preventing a potential disaster. The swift intervention of fellow river transport workers ensured that no lives were lost. This incident recalls a tragic boat mishap in October on the River Niger in Kogi State, which left many feared dead and several missing. Authorities continue to emphasize safety on waterways, as such accidents highlight the vulnerability of commuters to sudden riverine emergencies.

#RiversState #BoatCapsize #Abonnema #RiverSafety #WaterTransport #EmergencyRescue