The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, has commissioned the newly renovated Sapele Main Police Station, describing the project as a shining example of what unity between the Police and the people can achieve.
The commissioning ceremony, which took place during the Commissioner’s working visit to Sapele, witnessed a large turnout of traditional rulers, religious leaders, security agencies, and community stakeholders. The project was driven by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), CSP Johnbull Obioguru, in partnership with SEPLAT and the Sapele Okpe community.
Speaking at the event, CP Olufemi said the renovated station was not just a facelift for the Police but a demonstration of citizen-centred policing.
“This project reflects the future we want in the Nigeria Police Force — one where the people and the Police work together for peace and progress. I commend CSP Obioguru and the Sapele Okpe community for showing that collaboration is the real strength in policing. Other communities should learn from Sapele’s example,” he stated.
The Commissioner, who toured the new facility on unveiling it, added that such initiatives strengthen trust, boost intelligence gathering, and improve security operations across Delta State.
Also speaking, the Sapele Area Commander, ACP Victor Bassey, welcomed the Commissioner and commended the synergy among security agencies in the area. He noted that since assuming duty in March this year, Sapele had enjoyed relative peace.
“Your leadership has encouraged us to work closely with sister agencies, and this has kept Sapele stable. We thank you for the support you continue to give to the Police and to the people of this State,” Bassey said.
On his part, CSP Johnbull Obioguru, the DPO who championed the renovation, expressed gratitude to the community for embracing him as one of their own. He recalled that upon his posting to Sapele, his first step was to strengthen patrol visibility and adopt proactive policing.
“We introduced the 10-patrol system and partnered with the Sapele Vigilante Group to form the ‘Vigilante Strike Force.’ This drastically reduced criminal activities and restored peace to Sapele. Today, this renovated station is another proof of what we can achieve when the Police and the people work hand in hand,” Obioguru explained.
Among the dignitaries present were Chairman of Sapele LGA, Hon. Bright Abeke, represented by the Council Secretary, Mr. Raymond Overah; Chief Tom Anirah, who stood in for the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, HRM Major General Felix Mujakperuo (rtd), Orhue I; Chief Cyril Ogodo, Executive Assistant to the Governor of Delta State; Chief Festus Pemu; Patrick Erugba; Chief Vwoyibo, Bale of the Yoruba community in Sapele; Archbishop Iboyi Godday; Bishop Kingsley Majemite (Obeba I); the Eze Ndigbo of Sapele; and leaders of security and civil society groups.
The event climaxed with a guided tour of the refurbished facility, a symbol of renewed commitment to effective policing and community partnership in the fight against crime.
