Ododo Bans Night Arrests, Warns Kogi Security Agencies Against Abuse

Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has directed security agencies operating in the state to stop making arrests at night, warning against the invasion of residents’ homes under the cover of darkness.

Ododo issued the directive on Monday while addressing first-class traditional rulers at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Lokoja. He said the measure aimed to safeguard citizens’ dignity and fundamental rights while ensuring security operations comply with legal standards.

“No arrest should be made in the night. If you have any case against anybody, wait till daytime, follow due process, invite the person lawfully,” the governor said.

He warned that his administration would not tolerate security personnel harassing, intimidating or unlawfully detaining residents. Ododo also charged traditional rulers to report officers who breach the order, assuring them that allegations of misconduct would be treated seriously.

The governor used the meeting to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting Kogi through infrastructure development, security assistance and timely allocation releases that have helped states meet financial obligations.

He cited the reconstruction of the Abuja-Lokoja-Okene-Benin highway as evidence of the Federal Government’s commitment to improving connectivity and economic activity across the region.

Ododo also praised the President for strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture and backing local security initiatives in Kogi, which he said helped restore calm in several communities.

He appealed to traditional rulers to support the Chief of Army Staff, stressing that maintaining national security requires collective responsibility. The governor also acknowledged the contributions of the monarchs, saying their prayers, guidance and personal sacrifices had supported efforts to preserve peace.

However, Ododo warned that criminal groups were receiving assistance from local collaborators who provide food, logistics and information. He specifically urged traditional rulers to caution wood-cutters and other groups operating around forest areas against supporting criminals.

“If you are caught aiding criminals, we will not spare you, even if you are my brother,” he warned.

According to the governor, measures targeting supply routes and compromised local markets are already increasing pressure on criminal elements.

With political activities gathering momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, Ododo further urged traditional rulers to promote peace and discourage violence among their subjects.

He urged political actors to focus on issues rather than religion or ethnicity, cautioning that differences should not trigger violence, intimidation or destruction. Ododo urged residents to safeguard the peace currently prevailing across Kogi State.