Delta Police Broker Peace Talks as Tensions Rise Among Okwama, Okoloba and Akugbene Communities

By Diafa Doubra, Warri.

The Delta State Police Command has stepped in to prevent what could have escalated into a major communal conflict, convening an emergency peace meeting on December 1, 2025, to address mounting tensions among Okwama, Okoloba and Akugbene communities. The intervention, led by the Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, brought together traditional leaders, youth representatives and security stakeholders at the Area Command Headquarters in Warri for what officials described as a “proactive and timely mediation effort.”

The meeting, which began around midday, focused on long-standing disagreements linked to boundary claims, fishing rights and other communal issues that have recently heightened friction between the three communities. In his opening remarks, CP Abaniwonda stressed that the Command would not allow avoidable disputes to threaten the peace of the state. He noted that the gathering was aimed at giving all communities a fair hearing, calming tensions and reaffirming the Police Command’s commitment to preventing violence. The CP also issued a strong warning that any attempt by individuals or groups to take the law into their own hands would be met with decisive police action.

Representatives from the communities including the Ag. President General of Okwama, a delegation from Okoloba led by Dr. David, and prominent leaders from Akugbene welcomed the initiative. Speakers such as Pastor Edewor, Youth President Prince of Okoloba, Chief Okoloko Tata and Comrade Cletus of Akugbene, as well as Aaron Young of Okwama, provided insights into the root causes of the tensions and suggested steps to rebuild trust. Many acknowledged that disputes over waterways and fishing areas had strained relations, expressing optimism that the police-led dialogue could set the stage for lasting peace.

After hours of deliberation, stakeholders unanimously adopted a series of resolutions aimed at preventing further escalation. All three communities agreed to caution their youths against going armed during fishing activities and to refrain from any form of self-help that could trigger violence. It was further resolved that no community should create or enforce boundaries on open waterways, and that all individuals must be free to fish without fear or intimidation. Leaders also committed to following up on a pending request earlier submitted to the Delta State Government regarding boundary adjustments, insisting that the matter requires urgent and fair attention.

As part of next steps, the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Operations, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, is expected to invite the chairmen of the affected local government areas for a follow-up strategic meeting. The aim is to strengthen monitoring along the waterways in line with resolutions adopted during a previous Government House Annexe meeting in 2024. Participants also agreed that any person or group found violating the peace pact or inciting disorder would be arrested and handed over to the Area Commander for prosecution. To sustain continuous dialogue, a Peace Committee WhatsApp platform will be created to enhance communication and provide early-warning mechanisms between Okwama and Okoloba stakeholders.

CP Abaniwonda commended all the attendees for their maturity and commitment to peaceful coexistence, reassuring the public that the Command will continue deploying intelligence-driven and community-focused policing strategies to prevent violence. He urged the communities to uphold the resolutions reached, stressing that dialogue remains the most effective tool for preserving unity and stability.