By Anne Azuka
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has directed the State Commissioner of Police and other security agencies to arrest and prosecute any individual found in possession of firearms or attempting to disrupt peace in the state ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The governor gave the directive on Tuesday while receiving the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Police Command, CP Aina Adesola, and members of his management team during a courtesy visit to Government House, Asaba.
Governor Oborevwori described CP Adesola’s posting to the state as a homecoming, noting that the police chief was already familiar with Delta, having previously served in key operational roles within the command.
He said the relative peace currently enjoyed across the state was a product of effective collaboration among security agencies, adding that the new Commissioner had demonstrated professionalism, experience and a deep understanding of the terrain.
“I am very happy that you are here because you know this terrain very well. You have served here before and we saw your impact. For the few weeks you have been here as Commissioner of Police, Delta State has remained peaceful, and we are proud of your achievements,” the governor said.
Reflecting on the security situation prior to 2023, Oborevwori recalled that the open display of firearms by youths and criminal elements was once rampant across parts of the state but had since been decisively curtailed.
“Before now, people brandished firearms openly and caused fear. Since 2023, that has stopped, and it will never happen again in Delta State,” he declared.
The governor commended senior officers of the command for their dedication and professionalism, specifically praising ACP Aliyu Shaba and the former Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations for their roles in tackling gun violence in previously volatile areas.
As the state prepares for another election cycle, Oborevwori charged the police and other security agencies to remain firm and proactive, stressing that any attempt to breach the peace would be met with decisive action.
“We will not tolerate insecurity in this state. Anyone caught with firearms or attempting to disrupt peace must be arrested and prosecuted,” he said.
He urged residents to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information, describing security as a collective responsibility.
According to the governor, peace is critical to development and economic growth, noting that investors can only be attracted to a secure environment.
“Peace gives room for development. Without peace, investors will not come. That is why Delta State remains open for business,” he added.
Earlier, CP Aina Adesola thanked the governor for the warm reception and assured him of the command’s commitment to sustaining peace and security across Delta State.
He pledged that under his leadership, residents would continue to “sleep with their two eyes closed,” as the police would work tirelessly to ensure lasting peace in the state.
