Delta CP Seeks Stronger Partnership with Asagba of Asaba to Enhance Community Safety

By Chukwunonso Eric, Warri.

The Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Delta State Police Command to strengthening collaboration with traditional institutions as part of efforts to enhance security and promote community policing across the state.

CP Oyeniyi made the pledge during a courtesy visit to the palace of the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Obi (Prof.) Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, SAN, OON, in Asaba. The visit formed part of the Nigeria Police Force’s ongoing stakeholder engagement initiative aimed at fostering stronger partnerships with traditional rulers in line with the directives of the Inspector-General of Police on inclusive and community-based policing.

Speaking during the visit, the Commissioner of Police expressed appreciation to the Asagba for the warm reception and support he has received since assuming office as the state’s police chief. He described traditional institutions as critical partners in maintaining peace, law, and order within communities.

CP Oyeniyi assured the royal father of the Command’s readiness to sustain a productive and cordial relationship with the palace, emphasizing that the protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of the Nigeria Police Force.

He also reiterated the Force’s commitment to professionalism and accountability, noting that effective disciplinary mechanisms are in place to ensure that officers and personnel uphold the highest standards of conduct.

The police commissioner further stressed the importance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders, and residents in tackling crime and enhancing public safety.

“Effective policing thrives on cooperation, trust, and the timely exchange of information between the Police and the communities they serve,” he stated, adding that the Command is determined to work closely with stakeholders to reduce crime to the barest minimum across Asaba and the wider Delta State.

Responding, the Asagba of Asaba congratulated CP Oyeniyi on his appointment and assured him of the palace’s continued support and cooperation. The revered monarch noted that the palace has maintained cordial relationships with successive Commissioners of Police and would continue to partner with the Command in promoting peace and security within the kingdom.

Obi Azinge underscored the vital role of peace in the socio-economic development of Asaba, declaring that “peace is the greatest industry in Asaba, and we are prepared to do everything to keep it that way.”

The monarch also advocated for a robust community policing framework, stressing that crime prevention and detection are most effective when communities actively participate through intelligence sharing and collaboration with security agencies.

The visit featured extensive discussions on security concerns within the kingdom, strategies for improving public safety, and measures aimed at deepening the relationship between the Police and the people.

The engagement is expected to further strengthen the partnership between the Delta State Police Command and traditional institutions in advancing peace, security, and sustainable development across the state.