Jubilation in Kogi State as governor Bello destroys house owned by notorious criminal (Photos)

There was jubilation all over Kogi state as the amiable state governor  Governor Yayaha Bello  today ordered the demolition of the fortress in Odu owned by detained  notorious criminal  Zakari Yau.

The Governor's Chief press secretary Petra Akiniti Onyegbule  who was part of the demolition exercise  did a count of the exits in the demolished  building. There are 11 pedestrian gates excluding the main gate.
Recall that demolition of criminal hideouts began in the Central Senatorial District. Beginning specifically from Okene, the LGA of the Governor.

Odu is in Dekina LGA, Kogi East Senatorial District.

Speaking on this development, the Governor's Chief press secretary, Petra Akiniti Onyegbule said that the demolition exercise  is a welcome development and a prayer answered, hence the jubilation by residents of the state.


This is the beginning of the purge in Kogi East. Governor Bello has given uptil April 20th to criminals to willingly drop their arms and renounce crime to be considered for amnesty vowing not to rest on his oars until the state is safe. Governor Bello noted that the state is safer than it was when he took over in January 2016 but assured citizens of the state and Nigerians that he will rid the state of criminals.

"It is New Direction. Kogi must be safe and secure for all" the CPS to Governor Bello concluded. 

Zakari Yau, who is said to be greatly feared in the underworld and currently in detention, is believed to be the number one political thug in Kogi State, wanted for many of the politically-motivated killings not only in Kogi State, but in Benue State as well.

The  notorious criminal, who  has nine wives and 15 children  was arrested  at a location in an operation between Okene and Akure by anti-kidnapping technical team, led by CSP Abba Kyari some time last year.

Investigations   showed that the notorious criminal Zakari Yau was  believed to be responsible for the spate of kidnappings and armed attacks witnessed on major highways in North Central states like Nasarawa, Niger, Kogi, Benue and along the Lokoja, Okene, Akure, Auchi roads. .

The demolition of the house is backed by the state's Anti Kidnapping, Robbery and Terrorism Law passed by the State House of Assembly and assented to by the Former state governor, Idris Wada.