Addressing Rising Security Concerns in Oghara
In response to growing concerns over rising banditry and kidnappings in Oghara, the Commissioner of Police, Olufemi Oyeniyi, has taken decisive steps to address the worsening security situation. This initiative came after a significant surge in criminal activities that have left the community in fear. The police commissioner convened a high-level security meeting with the traditional ruler and other key stakeholders to discuss the current challenges and devise strategies for improvement.
The meeting was held at the palace of the Ovie of Oghara Kingdom on Monday, following public outcry over the increase in kidnappings and violent attacks in the area. Attendees included the Chairman of Ethiope West Local Government Area, Christian Onogba; youth leaders; Presidents-General of communities; members of the Police Community Relations Committee; representatives of the Arewa community; and other important stakeholders. Discussions focused on the rising cases of kidnapping, cultism, and drug abuse, with participants pledging improved intelligence sharing, protection of informants, and closer collaboration among the police, judiciary, local government authorities, and community leaders.
Alarming Reports from the Oghara Study Group
The Oghara Study Group recently raised the alarm over what it described as the deterioration of security in the kingdom, alleging that Oghara had become a hotspot for organized criminal violence. The group cited the recent abduction of a couple by suspected bandits, claiming that the husband was killed despite the payment of a ransom, while the wife reportedly escaped from the kidnappers’ den under the cover of darkness.
In a statement signed by its co-conveners, Rev David Ugolor and Prof Ogheneruonah Eghweree, the group highlighted that residents now live in fear as kidnappers, armed gangs, and cult groups continue to attack communities, farms, and major roads. The group emphasized that the security situation in Oghara and its environs has worsened in recent times, with an increasing wave of banditry, kidnappings, and killings. It added that victims are increasingly being killed even after ransom payments, leaving many families devastated.
Police Commissioner’s Response and Strategies
Responding to these concerns, Oyeniyi visited the palace of the Ovie of Oghara Kingdom, Noble Oyibo Eshemitan, where he met with community leaders, youth representatives, and other stakeholders to develop strategies for tackling insecurity. The police commissioner commended the monarch for promoting peace and harmonious coexistence in the kingdom and reiterated the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, on strengthening collaboration with traditional rulers, local government authorities, and host communities as part of community policing efforts.
He urged residents to sustain intelligence sharing with security agencies, stressing that criminal elements remain the common enemy. Despite these challenges, Oyeniyi maintained that apart from “some isolated cases of kidnapping and cultism,” Oghara remained peaceful. The commissioner assured residents that the state police command would strengthen intelligence-led policing and strategic partnerships to combat crime and improve public safety across the area.
Commitment from the Monarch
In response to the ongoing discussions, the monarch pledged the kingdom’s continued support for the police in safeguarding lives and property. This commitment reflects a shared responsibility between the community and law enforcement to ensure a safer environment for all residents. The collaboration between traditional leaders, local government, and the police is seen as crucial in addressing the complex security issues facing Oghara.
As the community continues to grapple with these challenges, the focus remains on fostering unity and cooperation among all stakeholders to create a more secure and stable future for Oghara. The efforts of the police commissioner and the traditional ruler highlight the importance of collective action in combating crime and restoring confidence among the residents.
