The Delta State Police Command has intensified efforts to tackle insecurity in rural communities, engaging local government chairmen, traditional rulers and other stakeholders in a strategic partnership aimed at improving intelligence gathering and crime prevention across the state.
Commissioner of Police, Yemi Oyeniyi, made the call during a strategic engagement between the command and the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Delta State chapter, held in Asaba under the theme: “Rural Policing: The Role of Local Administrators.”
The meeting brought together the 25 local government chairmen in the state and top government officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, Kingsley Emu; the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ekemejero Ohwovoriole (SAN); and the Director-General, Security Matters, David Tonwe.
Addressing participants, Oyeniyi noted that while Delta State remains one of the more peaceful states in the country, security challenges such as kidnapping, cult-related violence, communal conflicts, murder and land disputes continue to pose threats, particularly in rural and riverine communities.
He stressed that security should not be left solely to law enforcement agencies, urging local government administrators to take proactive steps in identifying security threats within their domains and strengthening collaboration with the Police.
According to him, local governments, being the closest tier of government to the people, are strategically positioned to support intelligence gathering, mobilise communities and coordinate grassroots responses to emerging security concerns.
The police commissioner identified drug abuse, cultism and internet fraud as major factors fueling violent crimes and called for regular security meetings involving traditional rulers, youth leaders, religious leaders and divisional police officers to address emerging threats.
He also advocated stronger support for community policing initiatives and improved regulation of vigilante groups operating across the state.
Oyeniyi disclosed that tactical teams had been deployed across the state’s 25 local government areas to strengthen security operations, boost police visibility and ensure swift response to criminal activities.
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He further emphasised the need for enhanced security around schools, churches, mosques and other critical public facilities, urging local administrators to maintain close communication with security agencies and make emergency contact numbers readily available to residents for prompt intervention.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who made a brief appearance at the event, reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting collaborative security measures aimed at sustaining peace and stability across Delta State.
During an interactive session, the council chairmen highlighted security concerns peculiar to their respective local government areas and proposed measures to enhance information sharing and community participation in maintaining law and order.
The chairmen commended the initiative, describing it as a timely platform for addressing grassroots security challenges, and pledged continued collaboration with the Police and other stakeholders.
