Police Move to Ease Rising Tension Among Delta Riverine Communities
The Delta State Police Command on Monday brought leaders of Okwama, Okoloba and Akugbene to the negotiation table in Warri, seeking to halt a growing dispute over waterways and fishing rights before it escalates. The meeting, led by the Commissioner of Police, Olufemi Abaniwonda, focused on clearing up recent disagreements that had unsettled the three communities. The police chief warned that no group would be allowed to take matters into its own hands or disrupt public order. Representatives from the communities, including traditional heads and youth leaders, acknowledged that boundary claims and access to fishing areas had created tension. They expressed support for the police intervention and agreed to work with the Command to prevent further strain. After discussions, all sides committed to discouraging their youths from carrying arms on the waterways. They also agreed that no community should attempt to impose boundaries on shared water routes and that fishing activities must remain open and free of harassment. A request already sent to the state government regarding boundary adjustments will be followed up. The police said local government chairmen from the affected areas will be invited for a follow up meeting to strengthen monitoring of the waterways. Anyone who violates the resolutions will be arrested and handed over to the Area Commander. A joint communication channel will also be set up to improve early warnings. CP Abaniwonda urged the communities to stick to the resolutions and maintain calm as formal processes continue.
| 2025-12-02 19:06:37