Delta Police, Civil Society Pledge Stronger Collaboration on Human Rights, Public Safety

By Chukwunonso Eric, Warri.

The Delta State Police Command has pledged to strengthen its partnership with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to promote human rights, police accountability, public safety and community trust across the state.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Samuel E. Erale, psc, mnips, made the commitment on October 21, 2026, while hosting representatives of CSOs to an interactive meeting and luncheon at the Officers’ Mess in Asaba.

The engagement, held in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, provided an opportunity for stakeholders to discuss ways of improving police-community relations, protecting fundamental human rights and strengthening cooperation between the Police and civil society.

Speaking at the event, Comrade Kelvin Ejumudo, Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Human Rights, described the engagement as an important step towards deeper collaboration, stressing that the Police and civil society should work as partners rather than adversaries.

Ejumudo called for improved accessibility to the Police and prompt responses to legitimate complaints, while warning against the spread of misinformation, particularly in ways capable of undermining public peace.

The Delta State Coordinator of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Mr Nor Chia Shaku, also reaffirmed the Commission’s readiness to work with the Police Command through constructive engagement to advance human rights protection.

Similarly, Pastor Edewor Egedegbe highlighted the role of civil society in promoting good governance, civic education, peacebuilding, community mobilisation and public accountability. He urged citizens to respect the law, reject violence and participate responsibly in civic activities.

Comrade Efemena Akhima cautioned human rights advocates and members of the public against disseminating false or unverified information, particularly on social media, stressing the importance of accuracy, responsibility and integrity in public communication.

Responding to concerns raised by participants, CP Erale acknowledged the vital role of civil society in promoting accountability and strengthening public confidence in the Police.

The Commissioner reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to professionalism, respect for fundamental human rights and zero tolerance for extortion and other forms of police misconduct.

He further assured stakeholders of improved accessibility, prompt attention to legitimate complaints and sustained engagement with civil society, expressing the Command’s determination to build a relationship based on mutual trust, transparency and shared responsibility for peace and security in Delta State.