The Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, has called for deeper collaboration among security agencies, community leaders, and residents to address rising insecurity and promote development in the state’s coastal and riverine areas.
Ibas made the call during a weekend series of town hall meetings held in three local government areas: Opobo/Nkoro, Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni (ONELGA), and Andoni.
Represented by the State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, the Sole Administrator emphasized that coordinated efforts are essential to curb crimes such as sea piracy, illegal oil bunkering, and theft of fishing equipment, which continue to threaten lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure in the affected regions.
“We are here to ensure synergy between local stakeholders and security agencies in safeguarding government infrastructure and critical national assets,” he said at the Opobo Town meeting.
Ibas assured residents that the government remains committed to improving key sectors such as healthcare, education, and road infrastructure, alongside enhancing the overall welfare of communities in the state.
In his remarks, the Administrator of Opobo/Nkoro LGA, Frederick Apiafi, detailed some of the unique challenges facing the region, including unauthorized vigilante activities and increased theft on waterways.
At a similar forum in Omoku, the headquarters of ONELGA, CP Adepoju delivered Ibas’ message, stressing the importance of peace as a foundation for sustainable development. He assured stakeholders of the state’s commitment to inclusive dialogue and community-focused security strategies.
“Without peace, there can be no meaningful development,” Ibas noted, calling on residents to cooperate with government initiatives.
The town hall train moved next to Ngo in Andoni LGA, where the Sole Administrator reiterated the government’s resolve to confront both security and development issues in the area.
He also responded to concerns raised by community members about oil companies operating in the region, particularly their failure to provide adequate employment and support to local youth. Ibas pledged urgent intervention to address the grievances.
In his own remarks, the Sole Administrator of Andoni LGA, Surveyor Atajit Francis, praised the state government’s outreach, describing it as a welcome step toward closing the gap between government and grassroots communities.
He decried the longstanding neglect of Andoni despite its status as a key oil-producing area, urging the government to prioritize both infrastructural upgrades and investments in human capital development.
