ASABA/Nigeria: The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Thursday declared the state government’s firm commitment to leveraging modern technology in the fight against rising crime across the state. Speaking at a high-level security stakeholders meeting in Asaba, the governor expressed deep concern over the escalating insecurity, particularly kidnapping, cult clashes, and drug abuse, urging urgent action from all security actors.
Governor Oborevwori sternly warned local government council chairmen against laxity, making it clear that regular attendance and active participation in monthly security council meetings are mandatory. He criticized some chairmen for neglecting their security coordination duties at the grassroots level, describing such behavior as unacceptable. “Monthly security council meetings are crucial for threat assessment, intelligence sharing, and coordinated responses,” he said, warning that failure to comply could lead to disciplinary measures, including suspension.
The governor outlined plans to deploy advanced surveillance systems, crime-mapping tools, and data-driven intelligence to enhance law enforcement capabilities and reduce criminal activities. He commended traditional rulers and security stakeholders for their ongoing support but acknowledged that significant challenges remain. “Reports of insecurity, especially kidnapping, are still prevalent and disturbing,” Oborevwori stated, urging youths to avoid inciting social media rhetoric and instead collaborate with security agencies and vigilantes.
Oborevwori emphasized that security is a shared responsibility. He charged council chairmen, as chief security officers of their local governments, to regularly convene security council meetings and maintain direct communication with the government through the commissioner for local government or himself. The governor also held the ALGON Chairman and executives accountable for any failure by council chairmen to fulfill these duties.
Highlighting the complexity of the insecurity problem, Oborevwori noted the influx of undesirable elements from neighboring states and vowed swift deployment of technology to detect and apprehend criminals. He urged council chairmen to foster close working relationships with traditional rulers and ensure adequate funding for community vigilantes, recognizing their vital role in complementing conventional security forces.
Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, praised the meeting as productive and reaffirmed commitment to eradicating kidnapping and violent crime in the state. Meanwhile, Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, HRM Maj Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (rtd), dispelled rumors about traditional rulers’ complicity in land deals with herders and lamented the lack of proper funding for vigilante groups.
The Commander of the 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brig. Gen. Folu Shonibare, assured that security agencies are making significant strides, citing the recent rescue of over 16 kidnap victims. He also clarified reports concerning a recent protest in Abraka, confirming no shots were fired and military intervention was professional and necessary due to escalating violence.
Hon. Possible Ajede, Chairman of Ukwuani Local Government Council, representing council chairmen, reiterated their commitment to the governor’s directive, promising to intensify efforts to rid the state of criminals and restore peace.
Governor Oborevwori’s meeting underscored the administration’s determination to combine technology, community collaboration, and firm leadership in curbing crime and restoring security in Delta State.
