Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has ordered the immediate demolition of the SAMBEL Facility located in Idoji, Okene Local Government Area, following intelligence reports linking the area to criminal elements allegedly connected to terrorist groups.
The directive was issued during an early-morning visit to the site by the governor as part of his administration’s renewed crackdown on criminal activities across the state. Governor Ododo declared that his government would not tolerate any structure or location being used as a safe haven for criminals in any part of Kogi State.
According to the governor, security agencies have been instructed to intensify clearance and surveillance operations statewide to flush out criminal elements and dismantle all facilities found to be aiding or harbouring criminal activities.
“There will be no safe haven for criminals in Kogi State,” Ododo said. “We will not negotiate with bandits or any group threatening the peace and security of our people.”
He reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property, stressing that the safety of residents remains a top priority. The governor also emphasised that security is a shared responsibility, calling on citizens to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by providing timely and credible information.
“Meaningful progress in security can only be achieved when the people actively support government efforts,” he noted, urging residents to remain vigilant and work closely with security agencies.
Governor Ododo explained that the demolition of the SAMBEL Facility forms part of broader measures aimed at restoring peace, strengthening law and order, and ensuring a safe environment for residents and businesses across the state.
He recalled that in December 2025, the Kogi State Government introduced sweeping emergency security measures designed to enable authorities to decisively confront criminals and their sponsors, in accordance with existing laws and legislation addressing violent crimes.
The governor assured residents that his administration would continue to deploy all lawful means to dismantle criminal networks and prevent the state from being used as a base for criminal or terrorist activities.
The operation, he said, sends a clear signal that Kogi State remains resolute in its determination to maintain peace and security.