By Onomiguren Agbamu
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has declared a zero-tolerance approach to crime and criminality in the state, warning criminals and individuals who may seek to arm others for political violence that they will face the full weight of the law.
Oborevwori gave the warning on Wednesday at Government House, Asaba, while receiving the newly deployed Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Samuel Erale, who paid him a courtesy visit.
The governor said security remained a central pillar of his administration’s MORE Agenda, stressing that peace and safety were essential to attracting investment, promoting economic growth and improving the wellbeing of citizens.
According to him, his administration would maintain a firm approach to fighting crime, regardless of the status, relationship or political affiliation of offenders.
«“If you are my brother, if you are my friend, if you commit, you go for it. Nobody is above the law.”»
Governor Tasks New CP on Intelligence-Led Policing
Oborevwori urged the new police commissioner to sustain an intelligence-led and coordinated approach to policing across the state.
He specifically called for stronger surveillance of communities, highways and waterways, particularly in the riverine areas, where the terrain can present unique security challenges.
The governor also stressed the need for closer collaboration among the police, other security agencies, traditional rulers, youth leaders, vigilante groups and other stakeholders.
He said community-based policing would help strengthen trust between residents and security agencies while improving intelligence gathering and early response to security threats.
Oborevwori Warns Against Illegal Arms
The governor expressed concern over the proliferation of firearms, particularly the use of rifles by civilians without lawful authorisation.
He directed security agencies to intensify efforts to recover illegal arms and apprehend persons found in possession of unauthorised weapons.
Oborevwori also warned against the use of firearms and other dangerous weapons to create instability or perpetrate violence, particularly as political activities intensify.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting security agencies through the Delta State Security Trust Fund.
According to him, the government would continue to provide operational vehicles, logistics and other necessary support to enable security personnel to effectively carry out their duties.
Security Support to Continue During Electioneering
Oborevwori assured the police commissioner that the state government would continue to provide the necessary support to security agencies to sustain peace and stability across Delta State.
He said the administration was particularly committed to maintaining a peaceful environment during the electioneering period, stressing that residents should be able to go about their lawful activities without fear.
The governor urged all stakeholders to support efforts aimed at maintaining peace and to cooperate with security agencies in preventing crime and violence.
New CP Pledges Professionalism
Earlier, CP Samuel Erale assured the governor and people of Delta State of his commitment to maintaining peace and security across the state.
The commissioner said professionalism and discipline would guide his leadership of the command, promising to promote the same values among officers and personnel.
Eralе said he would rejig the existing security architecture in the state and build on the achievements recorded by his predecessors.
He expressed his commitment to working with relevant stakeholders to strengthen security operations and make Delta State safer for residents, businesses and visitors.
The meeting underscored the shared responsibility of the state government, security agencies and communities in tackling crime and maintaining peace across Delta.
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