Okene – The Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, on Thursday ordered the demolition of the notorious Sambel Joint in Idoji, Okene Local Government Area, after intelligence confirmed the building was a hub for criminal activities.
The action followed a state directive declaring all fraudulently and illegally acquired properties null and void, with the government warning that any structure used for crime would be reclaimed and its occupants prosecuted.
Properties at GP. 23A, 23B, 24A & 24B (Government Quarters, Idoji) with Certificate of Occupancy KG. 13958 were demolished after investigations revealed they had been unlawfully occupied and turned into operational bases for criminals.
Speaking during the exercise, Governor Ododo reiterated his commitment to protecting lives and livelihoods, stressing that the move was a proactive measure against crime.
“We will never negotiate with criminals. If you harbour criminals, your house will go down. We are taking the fight to them anywhere they are,” the Governor warned.
Residents of Idoji praised the swift action, describing the demolition as bold and timely, restoring peace and confidence in the community.
Governor Ododo also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting security initiatives in the state, affirming that Kogi will not serve as a safe haven for criminals.
The exercise underscores the administration’s zero-tolerance stance on criminality, aiming to ensure that citizens live without fear and that lawbreakers face the full weight of the law.
