By Sam Biodun Ogundipe in London

Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, on Thursday commissioned a fully equipped Police Force Violent Crime Response Unit in Lokoja, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.

The governor said the facility was part of efforts to strengthen the state’s security architecture and improve the operational capacity of law enforcement agencies in tackling violent crimes.

Represented by his deputy, Joel Salifu, at the inauguration, Ododo said security remained central to his administration’s development agenda, noting that economic growth and prosperity could only thrive in a peaceful and secure environment.

He said the Violent Crime Response Unit had recorded successes in combating criminal activities despite operating from a shared facility, adding that the increasing scope of its responsibilities necessitated the construction of a dedicated operational headquarters.

“The safety of our people remains non-negotiable. This facility is a testament to our resolve to provide security agencies with the tools and environment required to effectively discharge their duties,” he said.

According to the governor, the facility, funded by the state government, comprises 10 offices, detention cells, a conference room, a control room and an uninterrupted power supply system.

Governor Ododo also announced the donation of four Toyota Hilux operational vehicles, a bulletproof Buffalo Armoured Personnel Carrier and three Toyota Sienna vehicles to enhance the unit’s rapid response and crime-fighting capabilities

He commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting security agencies and strengthening national security efforts across the country.

The governor further pledged continued support for the Nigeria Police Force, saying his administration had invested in operational vehicles, communication gadgets, renovation of police formations, repair of armoured personnel carriers, refurbishment of patrol vans and welfare packages for security personnel.

He urged officers of the unit to remain professional, disciplined and courageous in carrying out their duties, assuring them of sustained government support.

Earlier, the Commissioner of Police in Kogi State, Naziru Kankarofi, described the inauguration as a major milestone in the state’s efforts to tackle crime and maintain public safety.

Kankarofi said the unit was established under the reform agenda of the Inspector-General of Police to address emerging security threats, including kidnapping, banditry, highway robbery and other violent crimes through intelligence-led operations and rapid response strategies

He disclosed that officers deployed to the unit underwent rigorous screening and assessment processes to ensure that only competent and dedicated personnel were selected.

The police commissioner thanked the state government
for providing the facility and operational logistics needed for the unit’s effective take-off.

He assured residents that the unit would operate within the law, respect human rights and collaborate with other security agencies and community stakeholders to improve public safety.