Kogi Clamps Down on Disbanded National Taskforce Operating Illegally

Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

The Kogi State Government has begun the clampdown on disbanded National Task Force operating ‘illegally’ in the state.

The Director-General, Kogi State Special Task Force on Illegal Smuggling of Fire Arms and Other Related Crimes, Mr. Friday Sani Makama, disclosed this yesterday shortly after a strategic meeting with the Importers Association of Nigeria (IMAN) Special Task Force.

Addressing journalists after the meeting yesterday, Makama said it has come to the notice of the agency that arms are being smuggled into Kogi State due to the illegal operation of the disbanded NAT force.

While charging IMAN to partner the agency to stop illegal arms smuggling to Kogi State, Makama added that all those involved in this illegal act would be arrested and prosecuted.

 According to him, “The NAT force has been disbanded by the federal government, but it has come to our notice that some disgruntled elements are still operating in the name of NAT force; extorting money from the people and ensuring that arms are smuggled into Kogi State. We are going to put an end to this.

“With the mandate given to us by our governor, we are determined to ensure that those in possession of illegal arms, including the illegal operation of the disbanded NAT force, are apprehended.”

While frowning at the impasse surrounding the operation of IMAN in Kogi State, Makama emphasised that for the agency to achieve its mandate in the state, it is important for them to unite to rid the state of crimes.

 The Task force DG reminded the officials that the Kogi State Government under remains committed to liberate the people from criminal element, just as he warned that any individual, no matter highly connected, who is in possession arms and ammunition illegally will be arrested and prosecuted.

Responding, Kogi State Director of Importers Association of Nigeria (IMAN) Special Task Force, Idris Usman Abubakar, noted that IMAN needs speed boat in some riverine areas in the state to stop the smuggling of arms into the state to perpetuate crimes.