Akpowowo Visits Abraka Police Division, Warns Criminals To Relocate From Community

By Akpobomeh Oghenerukevwe 

ABRAKA, DELTA STATE –

In response to rising security concerns in Abraka and neighboring communities within Ethiope East, the Deputy Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olorogun Arthur Akpowowo Esq., has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring peace and curbing incidents of kidnapping and other criminal activities.

Addressing stakeholders during a high-level visit to the Divisional Police Office in Abraka, the Deputy Speaker described the current situation as a “heightened security challenge” that demands urgent, coordinated action.

He highlighted recent efforts by the state government and security agencies, including a joint operation that led to the rescue of 15 kidnapped victims from a remote swamp, carried out by members of the Nigeria Hunters Association in conjunction with the Nigeria Police.

The Deputy Speaker emphasized the importance of community collaboration, especially in providing intelligence and supporting local law enforcement.

He cited the Egbo community in Kokori as a model for peaceful self-mobilization, having successfully driven out illegal cattle rearers disrupting agricultural activity.

Furthermore, Hon. Akpowowo reiterated the full enforcement of the Delta State Anti-Open Grazing Law of 2021, which prohibits the movement of cattle on foot within the state.

He noted that many criminal elements are taking advantage of bush paths and forest fringes to carry out abductions, especially targeting students and farmers in remote areas.

To address this, Akpowowo disclosed that he had convened a stakeholders’ meeting at the palace of the Ovie of Oruarivie-Abraka on July 22, 2024, involving the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), the State Anti-Open Grazing Committee Chairman, and Hon. Chukwudi Dafe, Member representing Ukwuani Constituency.

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The Deputy Speaker appealed to residents to avoid further street protests over the insecurity, urging instead for peaceful engagement through press briefings and town hall dialogues.

He warned that ongoing protests risk being hijacked by miscreants, thereby worsening tensions.

“Your voices have been heard loud and clear,” he said.

“We are taking all reports seriously and working closely with the governor and local government authorities to address every challenge.”

Akpowowo assured constituents that he has already contacted the Ethiope East Local Government Chairman, Hon. Augustine Usinefe Ogedegbe, to strengthen security collaboration with the Divisional Police Officer.

He concluded with a firm message to criminal elements and their collaborators: “Change your ways or leave. We have your details, and we will get you down. Abraka and its environs will no longer be safe havens for crime.”

The Deputy Speaker also stressed the risk of food insecurity if farmers continue to be discouraged from accessing their farmlands.

He called on all residents to remain vigilant, law-abiding, and united in the fight against insecurity.