By joshua Ododo Inaugurates VCRU in Lokoja, Equips Police with Armoured Carrier, 7 Vehicles to Fight Violent Crime
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has inaugurated the Violent Crime Response Unit, VCRU, in Lokoja, describing the new tactical formation as a bold step toward modernizing the state’s security architecture and protecting lives and property.
The Governor, represented by his Deputy at the ceremony held on Thursday, June 4, 2026, said security has remained the cornerstone of his administration since assumption of office.
“It is with great pride and a deep sense of responsibility that I stand before you today to officially inaugurate the Violent Crime Response Unit here in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital. This milestone reflects our administration’s unwavering commitment to the security and safety of every citizen in Kogi State. Without peace and order, no meaningful development can take place,” he stated.
Governor Ododo announced that the state government fully funded and completed a modern operational base for the VCRU between March and July 2024. The facility, he said, comprises 10 offices, four detention cells, a conference room, a control room, and enjoys constant power supply.
To boost operational capacity, the administration also provided four Toyota Hilux vehicles, three Toyota Sienna vehicles, and one Bullet-Proof Buffalo Armoured Personnel Carrier. The Governor added that his government has continued to support the Kogi Police Command with patrol vans, communication gadgets, renovation of divisional stations, repairs of five APCs, and complete renovation of the Commissioner’s official residence.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing national security and backing the Nigeria Police Force, and pledged that his administration, in line with the policing agenda of IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, would provide additional vehicles and logistics to extend VCRU coverage to all 21 LGAs.
“To the officers of this Unit, your mandate is clear. Serve with integrity, act with speed, and protect with courage. The people of Kogi State are counting on you,” the Governor charged. He then declared the VCRU “duly inaugurated and operational for service to the people of Kogi State.”
Delivering a goodwill message, the Special Adviser on Security to Kogi State Government, Commander Jerry Omodara, commended the Commissioner of Police for “commitment and yardwork” that has led to a drastic drop in criminal activities in the state.
He said the introduction of the VCRU would further add value to the fight against insecurity. The security adviser reaffirmed the government’s hardline stance on kidnapping: “Kogi State government will not negotiate with criminals and kidnappers. We frown seriously on payment of ransom because it only motivates them to continue.”
Omodara assured that the state government would continue to provide logistics and political will to support security agencies, and urged citizens to supply timely intelligence to aid operations.
The Commissioner of Police, Kogi State Command, said the VCRU was established under the reform-driven policing framework of IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, which emphasizes proactive, intelligence-led operations and rapid response.
He disclosed that personnel for the unit underwent rigorous screening for discipline, operational record, integrity and physical fitness, and will operate in designated black combat attire for easy identification.
The CP assured residents that the VCRU is mandated to respond swiftly to violent incidents, conduct intelligence-led operations, strengthen surveillance, support high-risk area operations, and enhance inter-agency collaboration. He stressed that the use of force must remain lawful, proportionate and guided by rules of engagement, while upholding human rights.
Police authorities said the unit’s core objectives are to improve response time, disrupt criminal networks, restore public confidence, and ensure a safer environment for residents and visitors across Kogi State.