Residents of Sapele in Delta State have commended the Chief Whip of the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon Perkins Umukoro and his colleagues for their roles in the smooth passage of the Delta State Community Security Corps Agency Bill. The bill, widely regarded as a landmark legislation aimed at strengthening grassroots security, was passed during plenary on Tuesday under the leadership of Speaker, Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor.
The passage of the bill comes at a time of heightened security concerns across many communities in Delta State, with residents clamouring for a more responsive and localised security architecture to address rising incidents of theft, kidnapping, and cult-related violence.
In Sapele, observers, community leaders, youth groups, and market traders’ associations hailed the lawmakers for what they described as “a bold and people-oriented legislative intervention” to tackle insecurity at its roots.
Speaking to newsmen, a resident of the Ugberikoko/Gana area, Mr Felix Oritse, described Hon Perkins Umukoro as “a dependable and pragmatic legislator whose commitment to the safety of his constituents is well documented.” He noted that the Chief Whip’s support for the bill underscores his understanding of the security realities at the grassroots level.
“We know Hon Perkins has been very vocal about the need to protect our communities. His support for this bill reflects his passion for the people. This law, when fully operational, will bring security closer to the people and help us sleep with our eyes closed,” Oritse said.
Similarly, Mrs Jane Ogbebor, a trader at Okirighwre Market, expressed optimism that the new agency, once operational, will complement existing security formations and curb petty crimes in marketplaces and residential areas. “This is good news for us traders. The House of Assembly members have done well, especially our own Hon Perkins. We hope the Governor will quickly assent to the bill so it can start working for the people,” she said.
At the Tuesday plenary session where the bill was passed, the Speaker, Rt Hon Emomotimi Guwor, lauded members of the Assembly for their “diligence, incisive contributions, and dedication” throughout the legislative process. He reiterated that the passage of the bill was a clear demonstration of the Assembly’s commitment to the safety and welfare of Deltans.
Quoting Section 14, Subsection 2(b) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Guwor said: “The security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government. This bill reflects our collective understanding of the evolving security challenges and our proactive response to ensure that every Deltan can live and work in peace.”
The Speaker further noted that the Delta State Community Security Corps Agency Bill provides a critical framework for community-based policing and is aimed at strengthening local security networks across the state’s urban and rural communities.
The bill’s lead sponsor, Hon (Dr) Isaac Anwuzia, Chairman of the House Committee on Peace and Security and Member representing Aniocha South, said the legislation was carefully designed to address key areas such as recruitment, funding, operational guidelines, and the involvement of critical stakeholders in community security.
Anwuzia added: “This is a bill born out of the necessity to adapt our security architecture to local needs. We believe its implementation will be a game changer in addressing the security gaps at the community level.”
During plenary, the Leader of the House, Hon (Dr) Emeka Nwaobi (Aniocha North), moved two separate motions to suspend House Rule 12, Orders 80, 82, and 83, thereby paving the way for the third reading and final passage of the bill. The motions were seconded by the Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon Arthur Akpowowo (Ethiope East), and Hon Charles Emetulu (Ndokwa West), Chairman of the House Committee on Education.
For residents in Sapele, passage of the bill is seen as a much-needed intervention to checkmate criminality. Mr John Owhofasa, a community vigilante leader in Sapele, described it as “a rescue plan for communities left at the mercy of criminals.”
“This law, if implemented properly, will empower us to protect our communities. We have vigilantes, but without legal and financial backing, our efforts have been limited. With this new agency, we can have a more coordinated approach,” Owhofasa said.
The Delta State Community Security Corps Agency Bill now awaits Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s assent to become law. Once signed, it is expected to establish a legal framework for community policing and collaboration between state security agencies and local stakeholders.
The legislation is seen as one of the milestone achievements of the Guwor-led 8th Delta State Assembly, reflecting the lawmakers’ collective resolve to enhance peace and order across the state.
