THE Delta State Commissioner of Police, Mr Olufemi Abaniwonda, yesterday, emphasised that Delta State remains one of the most peaceful States in Nigeria.
He stated this in Asaba, the Delta State capital, during a meeting with members of a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), CLEEN Foundation, where he expressed satisfaction with the security situation, while citing ongoing efforts by law enforcement and cooperation from local communities.
Mr. Abaniwonda reiterated that due to the peaceful activities in the state, it has experienced growth in commerce and tourism, crucial for attracting investments, compared to others. “I can tell you that Delta has consistently ranked one of the safest states in Nigeria due to the diligence and commitment of officers, combined with the active involvement of the communities in providing timely intelligence”. He said.
The Commissioner, while assuring the public that the police were working round the clock to ensure sustained peace and security of lives and property, highlighted the importance of continued collaboration between the public and security agencies to sustain the status quo, urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police, as this cooperation has proven vital in preventing crime.
He also used the opportunity to mention some of the challenges faced by police officers in certain areas, particularly in enforcing the law because many citizens were not law-abiding.
He also called on CLEEN Foundation to review and enhance its role in supporting the police force across the country.
Mr. Abaniwonda assured the organization that commitment to maintaining peace and improving the overall safety of Deltans remained its top priority. He added that plans were underway to introduce the Police Trust Fund, which will support efforts to enhance security in the state.
Meanwhile, the Delta State Coordinator Observatory Group of CLEEN Foundation, in partnership with MacArthur Foundation, Mr Chucks Okpunor, said that the visit aimed to ensure effective law and order in the country; to promote and improve transparency, and accountability in the enforcement and implementation of the Nigeria Police Act 2020, Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015, the National Security Strategy 2019, and other related Human Rights protection laws.
He said the group has engaged the police, the correctional services, and the state Ministry of Justice to advocate for reforms in the criminal justice system in Delta.
While engaging the authorities on some charter demands, he appealed for compliance and implementation of these laws, stating that collective efforts are crucial in ensuring that these principles remain robust and effective.
