By Rita Daniel
ASABA- The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has issued a passionate plea to Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, urging him to immediately approve and put into action the Delta State Community Security Corps Agency Law of 2025, as the state grapples with escalating security challenges.
The forum's call to action comes in response to the alarming increase in violent incidents, particularly the relentless attacks on farmers by armed herdsmen, a surge in kidnapping cases demanding hefty ransoms, and a general rise in violent crimes that threaten the very fabric of society in Delta State. These incidents, DOPF warns, are not only endangering lives and livelihoods but also undermining food security and eroding public trust in the government's ability to protect its citizens.
DOPF, in a statement signed by Chairman Emmanuel Enebeli and Secretary Shedrack Onitsha, emphasized that their appeal stems from a profound sense of responsibility and a deep concern for the deteriorating security situation, especially at the community level.
The Community Security Corps Agency Law, a crucial piece of legislation designed to address these issues, was passed by the Delta State House of Assembly on July 22, 2025, after rigorous debate and a thorough legislative process. However, the law is still awaiting the Governor's assent, leaving a critical gap in the state's security apparatus.
Hon. (Dr.) Isaac Anwuzia, Chairman of the House Committee on Peace and Security, championed the law, which seeks to replace the 2020 version with a more comprehensive and legally sound framework for community-based policing and grassroots security across Delta State.
DOPF explained that the House of Assembly's intention was to create a formal Community Security Corps Agency that would work alongside existing security agencies to improve intelligence gathering and provide rapid responses to local security threats. The forum noted that federal forces are often stretched too thin to adequately address these localized issues.
While acknowledging Governor Oborevwori's approval of the Delta State Anti-Terrorism and Anti-Cultism (Amendment) Law, 2025, and the establishment of the Delta State Security Trust Fund, DOPF stressed that the Community Security Corps law is essential as it provides the operational foundation for effective grassroots security enforcement.
The forum also drew attention to the Delta State Anti-Open Grazing Law, noting that its enforcement has been hampered despite its enactment, with continued reports of attacks on farmlands.
DOPF cautioned that criminal elements displaced from other regions may seek refuge in Delta State if proactive security measures are not implemented. The forum stressed that Governor Oborevwori's assent to the law must be followed by clear implementation measures, including guidelines for recruitment, training standards, funding, oversight, and coordination with existing security agencies.
DOPF believes that enacting the Community Security Corps Agency Law will not only strengthen Delta State's security infrastructure but also reassure the public of the government's commitment to protecting lives, investments, and communities throughout the state. The forum urged Governor Oborevwori to act swiftly and decisively to address the growing security concerns and safeguard the well-being of the people of Delta State.
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