Kogi West Under Siege: Sen. Karimi Vows Infra Support as Army Deploys Troops to Bandit Hotspots
…..’Your Sacrifice in Tough Terrain Won’t Be Forgotten’
Senator Sunday Steve Karimi, representing Kogi West Senatorial District, on Wednesday paid a solidarity visit to the Commander of the Nigerian Army 12th Brigade, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, at Chari Maigumeri Barracks in Lokoja
The visit comes against the backdrop of worsening banditry and kidnappings that have left residents of Kogi West in constant fear, with armed gangs operating freely in forested border areas.
“Thank you for Investing in the of our Youth” – Dr. Fanisi Appreciates Sen. Karimi
During the meeting, Senator Karimi showered encomiums on the brigade commander and his officers for their tireless efforts in safeguarding lives and property across the district.
He highlighted the army’s remarkable feats in smashing terrorist cells, freeing hostages, and reclaiming peace in volatile zones battered by criminal onslaughts.
The lawmaker extolled the troops’ professionalism amid the raging war on banditry and kidnapping that has gripped Kogi West communities.”
Thank you for your proactive approach and for ensuring the safety of our communities. We recognise the difficult terrain you navigate, and your commitment to securing our forests and populace is invaluable,” Senator Karimi declared.
He extended heartfelt condolences to Brigadier General Sidi over the gallant soldiers lost in the line of duty while battling insecurity.
“Their sacrifice in defence of our nation and its citizens will not be forgotten. We honour their courage, dedication, and service. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, the surviving soldiers under your command, and the families of the fallen heroes,” the senator mourned.
Acknowledging persistent threats, he called on the army to redouble rescue operations for dozens still in kidnappers’ dens.
Addressing newsmen, the Kogi West Senator said he had secured accommodation for the new troops deploying to Jege and Idofin in Yagba East LGA.
Accommodation Ready, Bungalow Project Takes Off Soon “The military has assured deployment of the troops immediately. And in furtherance to that, I have provided them with accommodation in those aforementioned places,” Senator Karimi affirmed.
He further committed to building a troop bungalow at the barracks, with construction starting imminently to bolster operational capacity.
Recalled. This follows Senator Karimi’s donation of a 96-bed equipped Military Forward Operating Base and two new Hilux vans to the army in Egbe, Yagba West LGA, straddling Kogi-Kwara borders. a gesture credited with enhancing patrols.
Kogi West indigenes now hope these combined efforts will end the nightmare of abductions and raids, paving way for safe farming and trade.
Responding, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi expressed gratitude for the visit and pledged the army’s unyielding campaign to eradicate criminals from Kogi West.
He announced imminent deployment of reinforcements to key hotspots: Olle in Kabba-Bunu LGA; Isanlu, Jege, and Idofin in Yagba East LGA; Odo-Ere and Egbe in Yagba West LGA; and beyond.
In recognition of his steadfast support against insecurity in Kogi West and the state, the brigade commander honoured Senator Karimi with a special plaque.
