Olu Samuel

The Kogi East Neighborhood Watch (KENW), a community policing non governmental organization, has lauded the officers and men of the 21 Battalion of the Nigerian Army for their swift and professional response in thwarting a kidnapping incident and rescuing a victim along the Egume Ochaja axis.

The rescue operation, which took place in the afternoon of January 30, 2026, was personally led by the Commanding Officer of the battalion, a development KENW described as commendable and reassuring to residents of the area.

The commendation was contained in a statement signed by Wing Commander Iye Ayefu (rtd), Director of Public Communication of the Kogi East Neighborhood Watch.

According to Ayefu, the prompt intervention by the Nigerian Army has renewed public confidence in the ability of the security agencies to protect lives and property in Kogi East.

“The swift response and successful rescue operation by the 21 Battalion have rekindled our conviction that the deployment of the battalion to Kogi East will significantly improve the security architecture of the zone,” Ayefu stated.

He further praised the leadership and gallantry of the troops, noting that their actions have sent a strong signal to criminal elements operating within the region.

“This timely operation demonstrates the Nigerian Army’s commitment to safeguarding innocent citizens and reinforces the message that Kogi East will not be a safe haven for kidnappers and other criminal elements,” he added.

KENW also called on communities across Kogi East to complement the efforts of security agencies by establishing first-line defence volunteer groups.

The organization explained that such volunteers should be properly trained by the Nigeria Police Force and deployed in support roles to assist security agencies with credible, actionable, and timely intelligence.

“Community participation remains critical to winning the fight against insecurity. We urge traditional institutions, youth groups, and community leaders to support the formation of trained local volunteers who can serve as the eyes and ears of security agencies,” Ayefu said.

He reaffirmed KENW’s commitment to partnering with security agencies and local communities to promote peace, vigilance, and sustainable security across Kogi East.