In a bid to address key concerns such as insecurity, drug abuse, land grabbing, and poor environmental practices, Woji Community in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State has held a one-day security summit on Thursday, drawing together traditional leaders, government officials, law enforcement agencies, and residents.
The Vice Chairman of the LGA, Dr. Joyce Nyeche, who represented the chairman commended the community for taking the initiative.
She described the summit as a vital platform for residents to collectively tackle local challenges.
According to her, “Like my boss always says, the people united can never be defeated. United we stand, divided we fall. If we must defeat insecurity, land grabbing, and drug abuse, then we must cooperate with government and with each other.”
Nyeche raised concerns about the growing prevalence of drug abuse and its link to crime and urged parents to monitor their children closely and communities to take ownership of the fight against substance misuse.
On land disputes, she warned that many cases are instigated from within and assured that the council was committed to addressing the issue decisively.
On environmental concerns, she echoed the message of RIWAMA’s Managing Director, Dr. Ibinabo Wokoma, on the importance of proper waste management. She called on residents to embrace recycling, reduce waste, and stop illegal dumping, emphasizing that “cleanliness is next to godliness.”
Nyeche also encouraged residents to participate in the ongoing voter registration, noting that accurate data determines government resource allocation and development planning.
On his part, the Paramount Ruler of Woji, His Royal Highness, Eze Emeka Ihunwo, declared an ultimatum to drug dealers in the community, both indigenes and non-indigenes, to vacate the area.
“If you are a Woji son or a non-indigene residing here and you are into selling drugs, we are giving you a grace period till Sunday. From Monday, it will be fire for fire,” the royal father cautioned.
He recalled that the previous security summit in 2019/2020 led to the successful implementation of street security gates across Woji which he said enhanced safety and created jobs.
Also Read: Obio/Akpor Council Chairman Visits Rivers NYSC Camp, Donates 100 Bags of Rice
Ihunwo also cautioned against fraudulent land deals and the forging of documents, reminding residents that Woji is a united and law-abiding community.
Also speaking, the RIWAMA boss, Dr. Ibinabo Wokoma emphasized responsible waste disposal and urges residents to stop dumping refuse on road medians. He highlighted the benefits of the “3Rs”, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and pledged continued government efforts to expand waste infrastructure across the state.
Wokoma encouraged partnerships between communities and RIWAMA to maintain clean and healthy environments.
Addressing the summit, the Commander of the Mini Okoro Police Division, ACP Lawan Yunus, commended Woji leaders for organizing the summit at a time when criminal activity often spikes due to heightened festivities during the Ember months.
The security expert outlined practical safety tips structured into situational awareness, transport and road safety, home security, financial security, and social life safety tips.
On personal safety, CSP Gusau urged them to avoid distractions like phones and earphones in public; vary travel routes; avoid flaunting wealth.
For Transport safety, he advised them to avoid unregistered or suspicious vehicles; keep car doors locked; check your vehicle before entering.
On home security, he said they should reinforce doors and windows, install CCTV, dispose of electronics packaging discreetly, and use timers for lights when away.
Also, he spoke on financial and cyber security and urged them to be cautious at ATMs, guard your PIN, and stay alert to scams and phishing.
For social gatherings, the CSP said they should watch their drinks, inform someone of your location, and avoid real-time social media updates.
“Your safety is in your hands. These practices, when followed consistently, will help keep you and your loved ones safe during the festive season and beyond.”
The summit concluded with a renewed commitment from stakeholders to work together in building a safer, cleaner, and more peaceful Woji. With traditional authorities, local government, security agencies, and residents aligned, the community is taking a firm stand against crime, lawlessness, and environmental degradation.
