By Obiabin Onukwugha
Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Rtd), has charged communities in Ahoada East local government area to actively collaborate with the local administration so as to protect critical oil and gas infrastructure within their communities.
Ibas, represented by the state Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, spoke at a town hall security meeting in Ahoada East, on Thursday. He noted the importance of the LGA in the economy of Nigeria, describing it as “strategic” due to its vast deposits of crude oil and natural gas, which he said are “vital to our collective prosperity.”
“We are here to remind you that these assets are vital to our collective prosperity. Your support in securing these facilities is crucial,” Ibas said.
He emphasized that security is a shared responsibility. “Security is everyone’s business,” he added.
The interactive session, held at the Ahoada East Council headquarters, provided a platform for traditional rulers, youth leaders, and community stakeholders to voice pressing security concerns and development needs in the area.
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Ahoada East LGA Administrator, Mr. Goodluck Iheanacho, while speaking, described the engagement as a timely step to address growing insecurity, including theft, vigilante excesses, and threats to law-abiding citizens.
He stated: “Since assuming office, I have engaged with traditional rulers and community leaders, and the consensus is clear: insecurity is undermining our progress. This meeting is a critical step toward finding lasting solutions,” Iheanacho said.
Traditional rulers at the event did not mince words. Eze Felix Enemy Ouwarikpo III of Upata Kingdom lamented what he described as “worrisome” security challenges in the area, stressing the inadequacy of security infrastructure.
“Epeye Kingdom alone has 99 communities but only one police division. Without security, there can be no meaningful development.”.
He further called on the state government to dredge blocked waterways to reduce perennial flooding in the area.
The meeting was attended by service chiefs, permanent secretaries, royal majesties, youth leaders, and market women, underscoring the government’s commitment to grassroots engagement.
A statement by Hector Igbikiowubo, SSA on Media to Ibas revealed the Rivers State Government, through the Office of the Sole Administrator, pledged to act swiftly on all concerns raised, assuring residents of continued efforts to promote peace, security, and sustainable development across the state.
