By Wealth Oghenemaro
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has issued a strong warning to youths across the state, urging them to desist from making inciting statements on social media that could undermine ongoing efforts to combat insecurity.
Speaking at a high-powered security summit held in Asaba, which brought together local government council chairmen, traditional rulers, members of the State House of Assembly, and senior government officials, the governor cautioned that inflammatory social media commentary does more harm than good in the fight against criminality.
“I urge our youths not to resort to social media and make inciting statements,” Oborevwori said. “Instead, collaborate with security agencies and local vigilantes to confront kidnappers and other perpetrators of crime in your communities.”
He expressed concern over the disturbing resurgence of kidnapping, cult-related violence, and drug abuse across the state, noting that while government and security agencies are doing their best, they need the cooperation of all, especially the youth, to achieve lasting peace.
The governor recalled his personal experience during his tenure as Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, when he actively engaged with local communities to resolve security issues without resorting to public outrage or online campaigns.
“When I was Speaker, we didn’t run to social media. We took action. I remember driving through the dangerous parts of Abraka in my brand-new Lexus to meet with the people and resolve security issues. That’s the kind of commitment we need,” he said.
Oborevwori stressed that while social media can be a tool for awareness, it should not be used to discredit the efforts of security personnel or government officials working to restore peace. He explained that much of the progress in crime fighting is not always made public for strategic reasons, urging the public to trust that work is being done behind the scenes.
“There are many things we don’t bring to social media because of the sensitivity of security operations. We’ve dismantled kidnapping rings and intercepted criminal movements, but we can’t always publicize it,” the governor stated.
He further called on community leaders and the youth to play active roles in intelligence gathering and grassroots vigilance, adding that support must be given to local vigilantes who are often the first line of defense in rural and semi-urban areas.
Highlighting the destructive role of drug abuse in fueling crime, the governor noted that many youth-related crimes, including cult clashes and robberies, are linked to substance abuse. He urged community stakeholders to work together in tackling this growing menace.
“Even if there’s no kidnapping in your area, many of our youths are on drugs, destroying themselves. That in itself is a security threat,” he warned.
Governor Oborevwori assured that the state would soon deploy modern technology to detect and confront criminal elements and emphasized that all stakeholders, especially the youth, must take ownership of the state’s peace and security.
“We don’t have another state. Delta is our only home. Let us all work together—traditional rulers, community leaders, council chairmen, and the youth—to move this state forward,” he appealed.
The governor’s warning comes amid renewed efforts by the Delta State government to reinforce grassroots security measures, deepen collaboration among stakeholders, and address the root causes of insecurity in the state.
