The Senator representing Kogi West Senatorial District, Senator Sunday Steve Karimi, has strongly condemned the killing of a personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Mr. Ayodotun Olukotun, during an attempted kidnapping attack at his residence in Odo-Ere, Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, also led to the displacement of members of the deceased officer’s family, sparking renewed concerns over the growing insecurity in the area.
Reacting to the incident, Chairman Senate Committee on House Services, Senator Karimi described the rising cases of banditry and kidnapping across Kogi West and other parts of the state as alarming and unacceptable, stressing that the situation has reached a critical stage requiring urgent intervention.
According to the lawmaker, the persistent attacks on innocent citizens have become one incident too many, calling on government and security agencies to take decisive steps to stem the tide of insecurity.
He noted that several communities in Kogi West have established local vigilante groups to support conventional security agencies in safeguarding lives and property, lamenting that these same communities and volunteers have now become targets of criminal elements.
“My heart goes out to the Odo-Ere community, the family of the deceased, and all those who have fallen victim to this ugly cycle of kidnapping and banditry,” Senator Karimi said.
“It is senseless, barbaric, and a direct assault on our humanity. The government must begin to deliver visible results that will reassure our people that they are not the next victims.”
The senator extended his condolences to the family of the slain NSCDC officer and the people of Odo-Ere, assuring them of his commitment to working closely with relevant stakeholders and security agencies to bring an end to the menace.
He also urged residents of Kogi West to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding while continuing to provide credible information to security agencies to aid ongoing efforts to combat criminal activities.
Senator Karimi reaffirmed his commitment to the safety and security of the people of Kogi West, emphasizing that every necessary measure must be taken to restore peace and protect lives and property across the district.
