The Delta State Police Command, led by Commissioner of Police CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, on Monday, 1st December 2025, convened a crucial peace meeting with leaders and representatives of Okwama, Okoloba, and Akugbene communities following rising tensions over boundary lines, fishing rights, and related disputes.
The meeting, held at the Area Command Headquarters in Warri at about 1200 hours, brought together traditional leaders, youth delegates, security operatives, and other key stakeholders for open dialogue aimed at averting violence and securing sustainable peace.
In his remarks, CP Abaniwonda stressed that the Command would not tolerate avoidable conflicts capable of destabilising any part of the state. He said the intervention was a proactive step to hear the concerns of all sides, ensure fair mediation, and strengthen mutual respect among the communities. He warned that any attempt to breach the peace, take the law into one’s hands, or instigate violence would attract swift and decisive police action.
Community representatives—including the Ag. President General of Okwama, Dr. David who led the Okoloba delegation, and leaders from Akugbene—thanked the Police Command for the timely mediation. They acknowledged that the disputes primarily centre on water boundaries and fishing activities and pledged their willingness to work together for the collective benefit of all parties involved. Other contributors, including Pastor Edewor, Mr Prince (Youth President, Okoloba), Chief Okoloko Tata and Comrade Cletus (Akugbene), and Aaron Young (Okwama), offered insights on rebuilding trust and strengthening inter-community relations.
After extensive discussions, several resolutions were unanimously adopted. Leaders agreed to caution their youths against bearing arms during fishing activities and to discourage any form of self-help capable of inciting conflict. It was resolved that no community should demarcate or block waterways and that all individuals must be free to fish without fear, harassment, or intimidation. Stakeholders also agreed to pursue, through proper channels, the petition earlier submitted to the State Government on boundary adjustments to ensure it receives necessary attention.
The meeting further resolved that DCP Operations, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, will invite the Chairmen of the affected Local Government Areas for a follow-up session with the Commissioner of Police. The meeting will review strategies for monitoring waterways, in line with resolutions adopted at the 2024 Government House Annexe meeting. Additionally, any person or group found violating the peace pact or disturbing public order will be promptly arrested and handed over to the Area Commander for prosecution. To enhance communication and early-warning intervention, a joint Peace Committee WhatsApp platform will be created for Okwama and Okoloba stakeholders.
CP Abaniwonda commended all participants for their restraint, cooperation, and sincere commitment to peace. He assured residents that the Police Command will continue to deploy intelligence-driven and community-focused policing approaches to prevent violence and protect lives and property. He urged all communities to honour the resolutions reached and embrace dialogue as the most effective tool for preventing conflict and sustaining peaceful coexistence.
SP BRIGHT EDAFE, ANIPR, FCIA, FIPMD
Police Public Relations Officer
Delta State Command, Asaba
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