Banner Online News

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

The rising wave of insecurity across Oshimili North, Delta State and Nigeria at large has again brought to the fore the urgent need to strengthen the nation’s security architecture. While citizens continue to demand safety and swift response from security agencies, many do not realize the harsh reality on the ground: our police officers lack the basic tools required to effectively confront the criminals threatening our peace.

In communities such as Ibusa, Illah,Akwukwu- Igbo,Okpanam where cases of kidnapping attacks have become worrisome, the police have been stretched to their limits. Investigations reveal that even the anti-kidnapping squad operating in local government area does not have a single operational vehicle. Officers are forced to rent vehicles in order to pursue kidnappers or carry out rescue missions—an unimaginable situation for Police men expected to risk their lives daily for public safety.

Even more disturbing is the absence of modern crime-fighting technology. There are no surveillance drones, no tracking gadgets,motor bikes and no specialized equipment to penetrate the thick forests where most kidnappers operate. These forests, which stretch across several local government areas in Delta State, have become safe havens for criminals simply because security personnel cannot access them. The officers are willing, capable, and trained—but you cannot give what you do not have.

Yet, in the face of these overwhelming challenges, the public is often quick to criticize the police, local Vigilantes forgetting that courage alone cannot replace adequate resources. With proper support, the Nigerian Police Force has the manpower and expertise to drastically reduce crime, but their hands remain tied by severe underfunding.

This is the time for government at all levels, individuals, and corporate bodies to step forward. Insecurity is no longer a distant issue—it affects everyone. The private sector must recognize that safety is a foundation for economic growth, and communities need to understand that security is a shared responsibility, not a burden left only on the government.

Local government councils especially must shift their attention to securing the vast forests within their domains. Empowering local vigilante groups—who understand the terrain better than anyone—should be made a priority. Providing them with communication tools, mobility, and collaborative frameworks with the police will create stronger frontline defence systems against kidnappers and bandits.

Oshimili North cannot afford to wait until the situation becomes irreparable. A state of emergency must be declared on our forests and border areas, where criminal activities silently flourish. Equipping the police is not a privilege; it is a necessity for national survival.

The time to act is now. Our police and Local Vigilantes need vehicles. They need drones. They need communication equipment. They need community collaboration. Above all, they need the full backing of government, traditional institutions, private organizations, and citizens.

Security is everyone’s business. If we fail to support our security agencies today, we all pay the price tomorrow.