An assessment of Bello’s security legacy must consider those documented incidents alongside evidence of what changed during and after his administration. While some residents and supporters credit his government with improving security, broad claims that criminality was eliminated or that Kogi Central recorded no bank robberies throughout his tenure require reliable security records to establish them.

One of the most devastating incidents occurred on August 6, 2012, when gunmen attacked a Deeper Life Bible Church at Otite, near Okene, during a worship service. Contemporary reports gave varying casualty figures, with some reporting at least 16 deaths and others putting the toll at 19. The church’s pastor was among those killed, and several worshippers were injured.

The following day, gunmen killed two soldiers in Okene in a separate attack, adding to the fear and uncertainty gripping the area. The incidents drew national attention and prompted security measures, including a curfew.

In February 2015, reports also emerged of the killing of Islamic scholar Sheikh Abdulazeez Sadiq Enyinavi in Okene, alongside two other people. Later that year, the abduction of a High Court judge in Adavi and reports of kidnappings involving members of the family of the then Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly further highlighted the security concerns facing residents.

Armed robbery was another major concern. On July 31, 2015, gunmen attacked a commercial bank in Okene. Contemporary reporting by Channels Television said two police officers and two suspected robbers were killed during an exchange of gunfire. The incident disrupted activity around the area and reinforced calls for more effective protection of banks, businesses and the public.

The security challenges also affected daily life beyond major incidents. Residents faced concerns about travelling between communities, operating businesses, farming and moving goods along roads. Community members reportedly responded by organising local vigilance efforts and restricting access to some neighbourhoods in an attempt to protect themselves.

Against this background, Bello took office in 2016 with security among the major responsibilities confronting his administration. His government pursued security interventions and worked with security agencies to address criminal activity across the state. Supporters have since pointed to these efforts as part of his administration’s record, particularly in Kogi Central.

However, determining the scale of any improvement requires more than personal accounts or political endorsements. Police records, kidnapping statistics, robbery reports and comparable data from before, during and after his tenure would help establish how much the security situation changed and whether the gains were sustained.

Claims that Kogi Central experienced zero bank robberies during and after Bello’s administration should therefore be treated cautiously unless supported by comprehensive, independently verifiable records. Similarly, allegations that Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau was hiding in Okene should not be presented as established fact without credible evidence.

For residents, the practical meaning of security remains clear: being able to travel safely, open shops, work on farms, attend religious services and carry out community responsibilities without fear of violence or abduction. Protecting traditional rulers, religious leaders, masquerade custodians and other residents is also essential to preserving community life.

Bello’s tenure remains part of the debate over how Kogi State responded to the security challenges it inherited. Supporters credit his administration with helping restore confidence, while a full assessment of its legacy requires documented evidence of the results achieved, the challenges that persisted and the security situation under subsequent administrations.

Ultimately, Ebiraland’s experience demonstrates why public safety must remain a continuing priority rather than a political achievement claimed by any one administration. Sustained cooperation between communities, government and security agencies, backed by transparent data and accountable policing, is essential to protecting lives and maintaining lasting peace.

By Comrade Danfulani Lukman Ohinoyi, writing from Okene.

Reporting by TalkNaijaMedia