Residents of Sapele, Delta State, have expressed enthusiasm over the proposed legislation to establish the Delta State Community Security Corps Agency, a move many believe will enhance grassroots security and boost local crime-fighting efforts.
The bill, which scaled second reading on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at the Delta State House of Assembly, was sponsored by Hon. (Dr.) Isaac Anwuzia, who represents Aniocha South Constituency and serves as Chairman of the Assembly Committee on Peace and Security.
The proposed law aims to give full legal backing to local vigilante groups currently operating without a formalized structure, bringing them under the umbrella of the Delta State Community Security Corps Agency. With 27 members of the House co-sponsoring the bill, legislative support is robust and widespread.
While leading the debate during plenary, which was presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, Hon. Anwuzia described the bill as “a timely intervention in addressing growing security challenges across communities.” He noted that the amendment would not only enhance operational efficiency but also promote accountability, professionalism, and better coordination between the Corps and community stakeholders.
One of the standout provisions of the bill is the proposal to place Corps members on a structured salary scale, with a minimum remuneration equivalent to Grade Level 5 of the Delta State Civil Service. This move, Anwuzia argued, would motivate officers and reduce the temptation of engaging in corrupt practices.
The bill also recommends integrating all 25 local government chairmen in the state as statutory members of the Corps. This is aimed at fostering deeper collaboration and ensuring that local government authorities are fully involved in monitoring and supporting community security operations.
Reacting to the development, some residents of Sapele expressed hope that the bill would translate to a safer environment and reduce reliance on overburdened federal security agencies.
Mr. Felix Uko, a community leader in Amukpe, said, “We are happy to hear this. For too long, our local vigilantes have worked without support or recognition. This bill, if passed, will change that.”
A market woman, Mrs. Ejiro Okiemute, added, “The security situation is not what it used to be. We need our own people, who understand the terrain, to be empowered legally. I believe this bill will help a lot.”
Another resident, Mr. Emmanuel Edesiri, described the bill as “a bold step,” calling on the lawmakers to fast-track its passage and implementation. “Community policing is the way forward. We just want to see action, not just talk,” he said.
The bill now proceeds to the House Committee on Peace and Security for further legislative scrutiny before its third and final reading.
Stakeholders across the state are watching closely, as the passage of the bill could mark a turning point in grassroots security architecture in Delta State.
