Kogi Media Watch komewa

22/06/2026

PRESS STATEMENT (NEWS REPORT)
In a significant breakthrough in ongoing security operations across Kogi State, government authorities have announced the interception of a large cache of arms and ammunition allegedly destined for criminal elements planning retaliatory attacks within the state. The operation, which involved coordinated efforts among multiple security agencies, has been described as a major success in intelligence-led policing and inter-agency collaboration.

KOGI STATE GOVERNMENT
PRESS RELEASE
KOGI INTERCEPTS LARGE CACHE OF ARMS, FRUSTRATES PLANNED RETALIATORY ATTACK BY CRIMINAL ELEMENTS
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 ex*****on.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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

22/06/2026

DSS Takes Sowore Into Custody at Abuja Court Following Remand Order

Human rights activist and publisher, Omoyele Sowore, was taken into custody by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) at a court in Abuja after a judge ordered his remand at the Kuje Correctional Centre.

The development followed court proceedings in a matter involving Sowore. Further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the arrest and remand are expected from relevant authorities.

22/06/2026

CUSTOMS TO RECORD OVER 1,500 STATUTORY RETIREMENTS BY 2027

The Nigeria Customs Service is expected to witness the statutory retirement of 1,516 officers between 2026 and 2027, according to reports.

Available information indicates that 825 officers are scheduled to retire in 2026, while an additional 691 officers are expected to exit the service in 2027 in line with public service regulations on age and years of service.

Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has approved a final six-month extension for the tenure of Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, allowing him to remain in office until February 2027.

Officials have described the retirements as a routine and legally mandated process aimed at ensuring orderly succession and compliance with public service rules.

Source: TVC News

22/06/2026

Bandit Leader Bello Turji Reportedly Claims Responsibility for Recent Attacks

Reports indicate that notorious bandit leader Bello Turji has claimed responsibility for recent attacks and stated that his group is willing to engage in dialogue with the government or continue armed confrontation.

The remarks were reportedly made in a message circulating in connection with the recent security incidents. Authorities have not publicly confirmed the claims at the time of reporting.

Turji has been linked by security agencies to banditry and violent attacks in parts of northwestern Nigeria. Efforts by the government and security forces to address insecurity in affected areas remain ongoing.

Officials have continued to emphasize their commitment to restoring peace and protecting communities impacted by criminal activities.

Source: Media reports; official confirmation pending

22/06/2026

PAAU Student Detained Over Allegations of Cult-Related Activities

A student of Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, has been detained following allegations relating to cult-related activities, assault, and threats against another student.

According to information released by the university, the action followed a complaint lodged by a student who alleged that he was pressured to join a group and was subsequently assaulted after declining.

The university stated that preliminary inquiries were conducted after the report was received, and the matter was later referred to the appropriate security authorities for further investigation.

Reacting to the development, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, reaffirmed the institution's commitment to maintaining a safe academic environment and reiterated the university's stance against cultism and other unlawful activities.

The management also encouraged students to promptly report suspicious activities through the appropriate channels.

Source: PAAU Public Relations Unit

22/06/2026

22/06/2026

Egbe Youths Raise Concerns Over Proposed Reopening of Kara Market

Some youths in Egbe, Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, on Monday voiced their concerns over the proposed reopening of the Kara market in the community.

According to reports, the youths gathered in the town to express their views, highlighting security-related concerns they believe should be carefully considered before any decision is made regarding the market's operations.

The development has generated conversations among residents, with calls for dialogue, stakeholder consultation, and a thorough assessment of potential implications associated with the proposed reopening.

Community members have urged relevant authorities and stakeholders to engage constructively in addressing concerns raised while working towards decisions that promote peace, security, and development in the area.

Source: Egbe Mekun Parrot

22/06/2026

Security Efforts Intensify in Search for Abducted Oyo School Pupils and Teachers

Security agencies have reportedly intensified efforts to secure the release of pupils and teachers abducted from communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

According to reports, security operatives have increased surveillance and operations around areas where the victims are believed to be held, with the aim of restricting the movement of the abductors and supporting ongoing rescue efforts.

The victims were reportedly abducted during attacks on schools and surrounding communities in May 2026. Sources cited in media reports also indicated that discussions related to the victims' release are ongoing.

Meanwhile, the Oyo State Government has urged the public to rely on official updates regarding the operation, emphasizing the need to protect the safety of those involved and the integrity of the rescue efforts.

Authorities have expressed optimism that ongoing security operations will lead to a positive outcome.

Source: Vanguard

22/06/2026

New Update: Activist Sowore Remanded At Kuje Prison As Court Rejects Recusal Bid After Bail Revocation

21/06/2026

Confusion Over Alleged Release of Kidnap Victims in Oyo State
Confusion has emerged in Igbope, Oorelope Local Government Area of Oyo State following conflicting reports about the release of abducted victims.
The development followed a viral video showing residents celebrating alongside Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Adeyemo (Sunday Igboho), suggesting that a kidnapped woman, her children, and a sibling had been freed after his intervention and a reported ultimatum issued to suspected kidnappers.
However, the Oorelope Local Government authorities and the Oyo State Police Command have both dismissed the reports as false.
The Local Government Chairman, Jacob Ogundiran, stated that the victims are still in captivity and urged the public to rely only on verified information from official sources.
Similarly, police spokesperson DSP Olayinka Ayanlade clarified that the victims were not released and emphasized that security operations are ongoing to secure their rescue. He also noted that the kidnapping incident occurred in Igbope, not Igboho.
Reports indicate the victims were abducted during a nighttime attack, with ransom demands initially set at a high amount before being reduced.
Following the incident, Sunday Igboho was seen in a viral video addressing community leaders and warning against continued kidnappings, issuing an ultimatum to suspected actors involved in insecurity in the area.
Authorities, however, maintain that no confirmed rescue has taken place and that efforts to secure the victims’ release are still ongoing.