ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta State Police Command has warned young people against allowing themselves to be drawn into political and digital thuggery, stressing that violence and criminal activities could undermine their future.
The warning was contained in a statement signed by the command’s Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, in Asaba, after the command’s grand finale of activities marking the Nigeria Police Force International Youth Day 2026.
The programme, held on Saturday at the Police Officers’ Mess, Delta State Police Headquarters, Okpanam Road, Asaba, was organised under the National Youth Leadership and Security Initiative with the theme, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.”
It also featured the national campaign, “My Future Is Greater Than Political and Digital Thuggery,” which focused on the risks of recruiting young people into political violence and the misuse of digital platforms.
The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, urged youths to reject attempts to use them for political violence, particularly during election periods.
He said involvement in political thuggery could result in loss of lives and destroy opportunities that should otherwise help young people build productive futures.
Oyeniyi encouraged youths to pursue education, deploy technology responsibly and develop their talents through activities that would contribute positively to their communities and society.
He also charged parents and guardians to provide proper guidance for young people and serve as positive role models in raising responsible citizens.
The programme brought together students, youths, police officers and delegates of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), Delta State Chapter, for discussions on youth leadership, security and responsible citizenship.
Delta State Commissioner for Youth and Development, Barr. Brave Enodeh, and the state Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Comrade Sagboje Odiri Milton, CLN, spoke on the need for greater investment in youth development and constructive participation in society.
The dangers associated with substance abuse also featured prominently, with DCN Omobhude Silas of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) delivering a presentation titled “Substance Abuse and Youth Vulnerability.”
Comrade Atsuwefe Olusegun Toritseju, Social Secretary of NYCN, addressed participants on youth leadership and civic responsibility.
An interactive panel session further examined issues affecting young people and their role in promoting safer communities.
The panel included Engr. Miracle Arimobi, Special Assistant to the Governor on Female Youth Development, and Amb. Onyedikachi Michael Odogwu, Special Assistant on Youth Development.
The discussions encouraged young people to make responsible choices, resist negative influences and participate constructively in their communities.
The police command said the programme was part of efforts to strengthen engagement with young people and encourage their involvement in initiatives that promote security, responsible citizenship and peaceful communities.
