The Rivers State Police Command, alongside all security agencies in Rivers State, in line with the directive of the Sole Administrator of the State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), has intensified its stakeholder engagements across more Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the state.
Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, led the multi-agency delegation that included top officials from the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS Pathfinder), Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Army’s 6 Division, the 115 Special Operations Group of the Nigerian Air Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The joint engagements aim to strengthen collaboration between security agencies and local communities, focusing on protecting critical national assets and enhancing public safety.
The latest round of meetings began on Friday, April 25, 2025, at the Council Secretariats of Emohua and Abua/Odual LGAs and continued on Saturday, April 26, with stakeholders in Tai, Ogu/Bolo, Okirika, and Eleme LGAs.
Related: Rivers Security Chiefs Meet to Discuss National Assets Protection
During the visits, CP Disu emphasized the need for synergy between communities and security agencies to combat crime and safeguard infrastructure. He assured community leaders that concerns raised during the meetings would be escalated to relevant authorities for prompt action.
In Tai LGA, Chief Nuka Gbipah, Administrator of the Council, appealed for the revival of the Soghai farm to create employment opportunities. His Royal Majesty, King Samuel Lebura Nnee, Gbenemene of Tai, asserted that Tai remained one of the most peaceful LGAs in the state.
Youth representative Ebenezer Letam highlighted the lack of employment opportunities and inadequate staffing in health centers and schools across the Bunu, Seme, and Nonwa Tai communities. Following the meeting, CP Adepoju and the service Commanders inspected the health center and community secondary school in Botem Tai.
During the Ogu/Bolo LGA engagement, the Administrator, Eliel Owubokiri, assured the security chiefs of the council’s commitment to maintaining peace. His Royal Highness Acheseinimie Micah Frank, King of Bolo Kingdom, raised concerns about theft and kidnappings on waterways. At the same time, the Chairman of Ogu Council of Chiefs, Adokiye Ochemiebia Chukwu, appealed for a befitting police station building to replace the current temporary arrangement.
The youth representative, Inime Emmanuel, advocated for youth empowerment and employment initiatives, while Mrs. Caroline Adikibiebuma, representing the women, decried the menace of scrap metal scavengers in the community. The service chiefs also inspected the Ogu Police Division during their visit.
In Okirika LGA, Administrator Thompson Isodiki reiterated the council’s commitment to supporting security agencies. Professor Sotonye Fyneface Ogan, Chairman of Kireke Council of Chiefs, identified theft as a persistent problem and requested an increased police presence.
Youth representatives Kalada Francis and Tomquimn Satson called for youth skill acquisition programs, the establishment of JAMB CBT centres, and modular refineries, while women’s representative Nene Mordecai advocated for women’s empowerment and improvements at Daka Market.
At Eleme LGA, Administrator Dr. Gloria Dibia noted that the ongoing construction of the council secretariat had impacted staff productivity. Community chiefs raised concerns over the criminal activities of herders, including kidnapping and farmland destruction.
Chief Sunday Dudu, Chairman of Onne CDC, recommended intensified patrols to curb rising crime rates, while youth representative Obo Olako urged for an arms mop-up operation. Dick Baiye lamented the epileptic power supply and high electricity tariffs faced by residents.
In Emohua LGA, Administrator Barrister Franklin Ajinwo emphasized that ensuring security was a primary mandate of his administration. Paramount Ruler of Rundele Clan, His Royal Highness Eze Damian Ejiohuo, appealed for proactive measures to dismantle criminal hideouts, while calling for adequate funding for local security outfits. Similarly, HRH Eze Jonah Nwobodo of Ibaa and Obelle.
Communities urged the government to revive abandoned facilities such as primary healthcare centers. Other community stakeholders, including Rev. Dr. Gift Asuru and Youth Chairman Stephen Onuoha, requested improved security, social amenities, and youth development initiatives.
The Rivers State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to deepening partnerships with communities and stakeholders to ensure the protection of lives, property, and key infrastructure throughout the state.
