By Thompson Yamput

The Kogi Government on Sunday commended security operatives for their doggedness in ridding the state of criminal elements and criminality.

Mr Kingsley Fanwo, the state’s Commissioner for Information and Communication, in a statement in Lokoja said the Joint Security Taskforce have of late been marvelous in their commitment.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the taskforce consists of officers of the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), the military and the Civil Defence.

“They have been committed to ensuring that peace and security reign supreme across the state.

“This is in line with the ideals of Gov. Yahaya Bello, who is determined to make Kogi the most peaceful state in the federation by continuing to empower security agencies to protect lives and property,” the commissioner said.

He however stated that government was wary of those in the political class making reckless statements which could undermine security in the state.

“We expect them (politicians) to ensure that the responsibility to keep our people safe is not jeopardised by unbridled political desperation of supposed enemies of our dear state.

“Politics is not a crime, nor crime is politics. Therefore. anyone who threatens the peace of our dear state shall be made to face the full wrath of the law without any political, class, religious or ethnic consideration.

“It should be on record that the governor has assured security agencies of his iron cast support in their efforts at combating crime in the state in line with his administration’s agenda.

“We, however, urge our people to go about their normal businesses without any fear,” Fanwo said.

The commissioner noted that Kogi holds a promise to greatness, and “we can’t afford to allow a few elements with no regard for human life reverse our sterling gains in the area of security.”

“From Egbe to Kotonkarfe, Lokoja to Ibaji and Bassa to Okene, we are prepared to defend the rights of our people to peace and security,” he said. NAN