Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta has charged security agencies to arrest and prosecute any individual found in possession of firearms or attempting to disrupt peace in the state ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The governor gave the directive when the Commissioner of Police in Delta, Mr Aina Adesola, and senior officers of the command visited him on Tuesday in Asaba.
Oborevwori described Adesola’s posting to the state as a homecoming, noting that the police chief was well acquainted with the state, having previously served in key operational positions within the command.
He said the relative peace currently being enjoyed across the state reflected the collaboration between the police and other security agencies.
The governor said that the new commissioner has demonstrated experience, professionalism, and a deep understanding of the terrain.
“I am very happy that you are here because you know this terrain very well. You have served here before, and we saw your impact.
“For the few weeks you have been here as commissioner of Police, Delta has remained peaceful, and we are proud of your achievements,” he said.
He recalled the security situation before 2023, noting that the open display of firearms by youths and criminals was once prevalent but had since been decisively curtailed.
Oborevwori said that such acts would no longer be tolerated in the state.
“Before now, people brandished firearms openly and caused fear. Since 2023, that has stopped, and it will never happen again in Delta,” he said.
Oborevwori also commended the senior officers within the command for their dedication and professionalism.
He lauded ACP Aliyu Shaba and a former Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, for their outstanding roles in tackling gun violence in previously volatile areas of the state.
Oborevwori charged the police command to remain firm and proactive, stressing that anyone found in possession of firearms or attempting to breach the peace must face the full weight of the law.
“We will not tolerate insecurity in this state. Anyone caught with firearms or attempting to disrupt peace must be arrested and prosecuted,” the governor said.
He urged residents to support security agencies by providing timely and useful information, describing security as a collective responsibility.
According to him, peace is directly linked to development and economic growth, adding that investors can only be attracted to a secure environment.
“Peace gives room for development. Without peace, investors will not come. That is why Delta remains open for business,” he said.
Earlier, Adesola thanked the governor for the warm reception and assured him of the command’s commitment to sustaining peace and security across the state.
The commissioner of police pledged that under his leadership, residents would continue to sleep with their two eyes closed, as the police would work tirelessly to ensure lasting peace in the state.
