By Obiabin Onukwugha
The Rivers State government has called for strengthened collaboration among security agencies, community stakeholders, and residents to combat rising criminal activities, especially sea piracy, illegal oil bunkering, and theft of fishing equipment in in the state.
The state government particularly expressed concern over rising issues of such criminal activities in Opobo/Nkoro local government area of the state.
Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Rtd), made the call during a town hall security stakeholders’ meeting held in Opobo Town st the weekend.
Ibas, who was represented by the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, emphasized the need for collective efforts to safeguard critical government assets and infrastructure.
He said: “We are here to ensure you work in synergy with the Local Government Administrator to protect government infrastructures and critical assets.”
The Sole Administrator further assured residents that the government would prioritize healthcare, education, road rehabilitation, and other welfare concerns to enhance living standards in the area.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Administrator of Opobo Nkoro LGA, Mr. Frederick Apiafi, described the meeting as timely and necessary, urging participants to engage in open and constructive discussions.
While acknowledging the peaceful nature of the people, he highlighted the region’s unique security challenges, including: Sea piracy and theft of fishing equipment, illegal oil bunkering activities, unauthorized vigilante operations.
Apiafi stressed that a safer Opobo Nkoro requires proactive surveillance, community cooperation, and stronger support for security agencies. He expressed optimism that the meeting would yield actionable strategies to curb crime at the grassroots level.
A statement by Hector Igbikiowubo the SSA Media to Ibas on Sunday indicated that the interactive session featured contributions from representatives of the Alapu (traditional leaders), youth groups, women’s associations, and other stakeholders from Opobo and Nkoro kingdoms.
