By Abdulkarim Abdulmalik
In a country where insecurity continues to test the capacity of governments at all levels, there are valuable lessons to be learned from leaders who confronted criminality with courage, intelligence, and decisive action. One such example is the security strategy deployed by former Kogi State Governor, , whose administration earned widespread attention for its aggressive and proactive response to insecurity.
At a time when kidnappers, armed robbers, and criminal gangs were spreading fear across many parts of Nigeria, Kogi State stood out as one of the states that adopted an unconventional but highly effective approach to combating crime. The state’s experience under Bello offers useful insights that the Federal Government can adapt in its ongoing battle against insecurity.
Kogi occupies a strategic position in Nigeria. Often referred to as the nation’s gateway, the state connects the North, South, East, and West. This geographical advantage unfortunately also made it attractive to criminal elements seeking safe routes and hideouts for their operations.
When Yahaya Bello assumed office in January, 2016, security challenges were among the major concerns confronting the State. Criminal gangs operated in several communities, kidnappings were becoming increasingly common, and some areas had developed reputations as safe havens for criminals.
Rather than relying solely on conventional responses, Bello adopted a strategy built on intelligence gathering, rapid intervention, and political will. Perhaps the most striking aspect of his approach was his readiness to confront criminality regardless of where it occurred.
Observers often point to his actions in Okene, his hometown, as evidence of his commitment. Rather than shielding criminals because they came from his own community, Bello reportedly demonstrated that no individual or group would enjoy protection under his administration simply because of ethnic, political, or family affiliations.
Following intelligence reports identifying criminal hideouts and property allegedly linked to criminal activities, the state government moved decisively. Security agencies conducted coordinated operations, leading to numerous arrests. In some highly publicized cases, buildings identified as operational bases for criminal activities were demolished with bulldozers in Okene, Adavi and other parts of Kogi Central senatorial district where cases of kidnapping was most evident before he became Governor in 2016.
The message was unmistakable: Kogi State would no longer tolerate criminal enterprises flourishing under the cover of political influence or community protection.
This approach resonated with many residents who had grown tired of living under the shadow of insecurity. Citizens increasingly saw a government that was willing to take difficult decisions in the interest of public safety.
One of the strongest elements of Bello’s security architecture was the emphasis on intelligence-led operations. Rather than waiting for crimes to occur before responding, security agencies were encouraged to identify potential threats, track criminal networks, and disrupt their activities before they could strike.
Security experts have long argued that intelligence gathering remains the backbone of successful counter-crime operations. The ability to know where criminals are hiding, how they operate, and who supports them often determines whether security interventions succeed or fail.
The Kogi experience appeared to validate this principle. Through collaboration among security agencies, local vigilante groups, traditional institutions, and community stakeholders, the state developed a network capable of providing valuable information on criminal movements and activities.
Another salient lesson from Bello’s tenure was the importance of political leadership in security management. Security agencies often perform best when they enjoy clear support from political authorities. Leaders who demonstrate commitment to security inspire confidence among both operatives and citizens.
Many residents believed that Bello’s visible involvement in security matters sent a powerful signal that fighting crime was not merely a bureaucratic responsibility but a top political priority.
The Federal Government could draw lessons from this model. Across Nigeria, there is a growing demand for intelligence-driven security operations that target criminal networks rather than merely reacting to isolated incidents.
There is also a need for stronger collaboration between federal security institutions and local communities. Criminals often operate within environments where residents possess crucial information about their activities. Creating trusted channels for intelligence sharing can significantly improve security outcomes.
Also important, is the principle of accountability. Communities are more likely to cooperate with security agencies when they believe that criminal suspects, regardless of their status or connections, will face justice. The perception that some individuals enjoy immunity from prosecution can undermine public confidence and weaken anti-crime efforts.
Given that security challenges differ from one region to another, the underlying principles of effective governance remain constant. Strong intelligence gathering, rapid response mechanisms, community participation, and decisive political leadership are essential ingredients of any successful security strategy.
Nigeria’s security challenges are undoubtedly complex. They involve banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, communal conflicts, and organized criminal networks that operate across multiple jurisdictions. No single model can solve every problem. Nevertheless, successful experiences from states such as Kogi provide practical examples that deserve careful study.
As the nation continues searching for sustainable solutions, policymakers may find value in examining what worked in Kogi State during Yahaya Bello’s administration. The willingness to confront criminality head-on, even when it involved individuals from one’s own community, remains a potent example of leadership in difficult times.
Security is ultimately the foundation upon which development, investment, and social harmony are built. Without it, economic progress becomes difficult and public confidence in government erodes.
The Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability could benefit from lessons learnt across the country. Among those lessons is the reality that intelligence-driven operations, backed by firm political will and community support, can produce meaningful results.
In an era where Nigerians yearn for safer communities and stronger institutions, the Kogi experience under Yahaya Bello remains a reminder that determined leadership and decisive action could make a significant difference in the fight against insecurity.