Canada-Based Lawyer Raises Alarm Over Rising Insecurity in Okun Land, Writes President Tinubu, Ododo

A Canada-based attorney, Barrister Segun Madamori, has written an open letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, raising concerns over worsening insecurity in Okun land, the Kogi West Senatorial District.

In the letter, Madamori described a disturbing rise in kidnappings, killings, and violent attacks in the area, warning that lives, livelihoods, and the social fabric of Okun land were “under severe threat.” He noted that recent incidents, including the abduction of a first-class monarch, the killing of local hunters, and assaults on security operatives, highlight the gravity of the situation.

“The abduction of a revered first-class monarch, the murder of local hunters, and deadly assaults on security personnel underscore the gravity of this crisis,” Madamori wrote.

Calling for urgent intervention, he urged the Federal Government to launch a joint federal–state emergency operation involving the military, police, and intelligence agencies to restore security. He also proposed strengthening community policing, deploying surveillance units across vulnerable areas, and ensuring swift prosecution of perpetrators to serve as deterrence.

Madamori further called for humanitarian support and compensation for affected families, as well as a probe into alleged collaboration by local actors, including some traditional institutions accused of selling land to criminal groups.

He encouraged Governor Ododo to prioritize youth empowerment and employment programs to prevent vulnerable young people from being recruited by criminal gangs.

“Decisive action will restore hope and safeguard a people who have remained loyal and patriotic. Okun land cannot be left to the mercy of criminal elements,” he said.

The letter was also copied to the National Security Adviser, the Chief of Defence Staff, service chiefs, the Inspector General of Police, and the Kogi State Governor.

Madamori an alumnus of the Government Secondary School, Omu-Aran and the University of Ilorin, both in Kwara State, practiced his legal profession in Calabar, Cross River State capital before relocating with his family to Canada.

 

*Report by Dayo Emmanuel