The Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, has urged enhanced cooperation among security forces, local leaders, and residents to tackle criminal activities such as sea piracy, illegal oil bunkering, and theft of fishing tools in parts of the state.
During a town hall meeting on security held in Opobo Town, Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area on Saturday, the Sole Administrator, represented by the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, stressed the importance of unified efforts in protecting essential public 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 also gave assurances that the government would prioritize healthcare, education, road repairs, and other welfare issues to improve living conditions in the region.
In his remarks, the Administrator of Opobo/Nkoro LGA, Frederick Apiafi, pointed out the area’s specific security concerns, which include sea piracy, fishing equipment theft, illegal oil operations, and unregulated vigilante activities.
A related meeting took place in Omoku, headquarters of Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area, where the Sole Administrator appealed for the maintenance of peace as a foundation for lasting development.
Also represented by CP Adepoju and a delegation of top security officers, the Sole Administrator stressed that “without peace, no meaningful development can thrive.” He reaffirmed the state’s dedication to strategic dialogue and inclusive cooperation to boost security and economic progress throughout ONELGA.
In Ngo, Andoni Local Government Area, the Sole Administrator reiterated the state’s determination to address major development challenges facing the region.
Ibas emphasized the value of stronger collaboration among communities, security agencies, and government officials to improve public welfare, security, and economic advancement.
He also responded to complaints about oil companies failing to employ local residents, promising immediate government action.
In his speech, the Sole Administrator of Andoni LGA, Surveyor Atajit Francis, praised the Rivers State Government for initiating the engagement, describing it as a step that would “enhance governance, promote peace, and accelerate development in Andoni and across the state.”
He expressed concern over the prolonged marginalization of Andoni despite its vital role in Nigeria’s oil production and called for swift infrastructure and human development interventions.
What you should know
Rivers State Administrator Ibok-Ete Ibas has begun a series of town hall meetings aimed at addressing security threats such as piracy and oil theft while promising improved infrastructure, better welfare services, and more job opportunities for local communities.
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