The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, has officially commissioned the newly renovated Sapele Main Police Station, a project spearheaded by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), CSP Johnbull Obioguru, in partnership with SEPLAT and the Sapele Okpe Community.
The commissioning ceremony took place during the Commissioner’s working visit to Sapele, where he lauded the collaborative efforts that made the renovation possible. The refurbished facility is expected to strengthen law enforcement operations and enhance security in the Sapele axis of Delta State.
Ejes Gist Media reports that the event was attended by notable traditional rulers, community leaders, religious figures, security agencies, and civil society groups. Dignitaries present included Tom Anereh, representing the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom; Chief Cyril Ogodo, aide to the Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori; Chief Festus Pemu; and Chief Vwoyibo, the Bale of the Yoruba community in Sapele.
Also in attendance were Pastor Omasa Mbaiku, Bishop Kingsley Majemite (popularly known as Obeba), the Eze Ndigbo of Sapele, Archbishop Iboyi Godday (the spiritual head of the Okpe Kingdom), and representatives of the Sapele Vigilante Group, Itsekiri community, Uniben Alumni Association, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
CSP Johnbull Obioguru’s Remarks
Speaking during the ceremony, CSP Johnbull Obioguru expressed gratitude to the Sapele Okpe Community, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, and the traditional institutions that supported the initiative.
“When I was posted to Sapele Division, my first action was to enhance visibility patrols across the town by introducing a 10-patrol system. We also prioritized proactive policing to prevent crimes rather than merely reacting to them,” Obioguru said.
The DPO explained that this strategy, in collaboration with the Sapele Vigilante Group through the formation of the “Vigilante Strike Force,” had drastically reduced criminal activities in the area. He noted that Sapele now enjoys “maximum peace” due to joint efforts between law enforcement and community stakeholders.
On the renovation project, Obioguru emphasized that it was the collective responsibility of the people and that he considered himself a son of the Sapele Okpe Community. “The renovation was made possible because the community accepted me as one of their own. This partnership demonstrates what can be achieved when police and the people work hand in hand,” he added.
Community and Security Collaboration
The commissioning of the renovated Sapele Main Station marks a significant milestone in Delta State’s community-oriented policing approach. By integrating traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil organizations, and security agencies, the project highlights the importance of multi-stakeholder partnerships in crime prevention and urban security.
CP Abaniwonda Olufemi praised the efforts of CSP Obioguru and the Sapele Okpe Community, noting that the collaboration reflects the Nigeria Police Force’s broader vision of citizen-centered policing. He urged other communities across Delta State to emulate Sapele’s model of unity and proactive engagement with the police.
The event ended with a tour of the renovated facilities, symbolizing a renewed commitment to effective policing and security service delivery in Sapele and beyond.
