By Mokobia Rita
ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has tasked the newly deployed Commissioner of Police, CP Samuel Etaifo Erale, with strengthening intelligence gathering and tackling the proliferation of illegal firearms as the state prepares for another electioneering period.
Oborevwori gave the charge on Wednesday when Erale, accompanied by members of the command’s management team, paid a courtesy visit to the Governor at Government House, Asaba.
The governor identified security as a key component of his administration’s MORE Agenda, noting that a stable environment was necessary for economic activities, investment, development and the wellbeing of residents.
He urged the new police commissioner to strengthen surveillance across communities, highways and waterways, with particular attention to riverine areas where security challenges can be complicated by the terrain.
Oborevwori also called for closer cooperation between the police and other security agencies, traditional rulers, youth leaders, vigilante groups and community stakeholders.
He said stronger community engagement could improve the flow of information to security agencies and contribute to more effective crime prevention.
A major concern raised by the governor was the circulation of firearms and the possession of rifles by civilians.
He charged security agencies to intensify efforts to recover illegal weapons and apprehend persons found in possession of unauthorised firearms, particularly those that could be used to threaten public peace.
The governor also cautioned against attempts by political actors or others to arm individuals for violence, stressing that criminal conduct would not be excused because of a person’s relationship, social standing or political affiliation.
“ If you are my brother, if you are my friend, if you commit, you go for it. Nobody is above the law,” Oborevwori said.
He assured Erale of the state government’s continued cooperation with the police and other security agencies, including logistical support through the Delta State Security Trust Fund.
According to him, the state would continue to provide support necessary for security agencies to effectively carry out their responsibilities and maintain the prevailing peace in Delta.
Oborevwori said the government expected the security architecture in the state to remain effective throughout the electioneering period and urged the new police leadership to sustain professionalism in carrying out its duties.
Responding, Erale assured the governor and residents of Delta State of his commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.
The Commissioner of Police said professionalism and discipline would remain guiding principles of his leadership of the command.
He disclosed plans to review the existing security architecture and build on the work of previous commissioners in an effort to strengthen security across Delta.
Erale’s visit to Government House formed part of his engagement with key stakeholders following his deployment to take charge of the Delta State Police Command.
