By Anne Azuka
Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Thursday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to adopting modern technology in the fight against rising insecurity across the state.
Speaking at a high-level security stakeholders’ meeting in Asaba, the governor expressed concern over increasing reports of kidnapping, cult-related violence, and drug abuse. He announced plans to deploy advanced surveillance systems, crime-mapping tools, and data-driven intelligence to enhance the efficiency of law enforcement and reduce criminal activities.
Oborevwori issued a stern warning to local government council chairmen, emphasizing that consistent attendance and active participation in monthly security council meetings is mandatory. He noted with displeasure that some chairmen have failed to coordinate grassroots security efforts effectively.
“These meetings are vital for assessing threats, sharing intelligence, and coordinating responses. Any chairman who fails to take them seriously will face disciplinary actions, including possible suspension,” the governor warned.
He further stressed that security is a collective responsibility, charging local council chairmen, House of Assembly members, and commissioners to work collaboratively with traditional rulers and community vigilantes.
“As council chairmen, you campaigned for office and know your communities well. You must take the lead in managing security issues in your areas,” Oborevwori said.
He also commended the efforts of conventional security agencies and community vigilante groups, urging council chairmen to ensure they are adequately funded and supported. “They are closer to the people and can complement the work of the police and other security forces,” he said.
Governor Oborevwori warned that any community where traditional rulers fail to cooperate with security agencies will not be tolerated. “We won’t condone laxity. If necessary, we’ll make examples of those who are not performing,” he added.
He called for a united front in tackling kidnapping, drug abuse, and related crimes, urging youths to refrain from inciting statements on social media and instead support law enforcement efforts.
Stakeholders Speak
Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, briefed journalists after the meeting, stating that stakeholders had resolved to implement decisive measures to curb the resurgence of kidnapping in the state.
“All stakeholders commended the governor and security agencies for their efforts. It was agreed that criminals and troublemakers have no place in Delta State,” Guwor said.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council and Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, HRM Maj. Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (rtd), Orhue I, thanked the governor for convening the meeting. He debunked allegations that traditional rulers collect money from herders in exchange for land.
“The land belongs to the communities or families, not traditional rulers. Some bad elements exploit this to tarnish our image,” he said, emphasizing the need for improved funding of community vigilantes.
Commander of the 63 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Asaba, Brig. Gen. Folu Shonibare, assured that security forces remain committed to tackling kidnapping, cultism, and drug abuse. He revealed that over 16 civilians were recently rescued from an attempted abduction in the state.
On the recent protest in Abraka, Shonibare clarified that no one was shot during the incident, contrary to reports. “The protest turned violent and was hijacked by hoodlums. Our troops had to intervene professionally to restore order,” he explained.
Chairman of Ukwuani Local Government Council, Hon. Possible Ajede, who spoke on behalf of his colleagues, said the council chairmen have received a clear directive to return to their communities and intensify efforts to secure their areas.
“It’s a marching order. All criminal elements must relocate from Delta State,” he declared
