The Rivers State Government has called for strengthened collaboration between security agencies, community stakeholders, and residents to combat rising criminal activities, including sea piracy, illegal oil bunkering, and theft of fishing equipment in Opobo Nkoro Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.
The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Rtd), made the charge during a town hall security stakeholders’ meeting held in Opobo Town.
Represented by the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, the Sole Administrator emphasized the need for collective efforts to safeguard critical government assets and infrastructure.
“We are here to ensure you work in synergy with the Local Government Administrator to protect government infrastructures and critical assets,” he stated. He 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 amongst others.
Mr. 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.
Our correspondent reports 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.
