In compliance with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, to strengthen police-community relations and stakeholder engagement, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Samuel E. Erale, psc, mnips, hosted representatives of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to an interactive meeting and luncheon at the Officers’ Mess, Asaba, on 21st October 2026. The engagement provided a platform for constructive dialogue on police accountability, human rights protection, public safety and improved cooperation between the Police and civil society.
Speaking at the event, Comrade Kelvin Ejumudo, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Delta State on Human Rights, described the engagement as a wake-up call for stronger collaboration, emphasising that the Police and civil society are partners, not adversaries, given their shared responsibility to the public. He called for improved accessibility and prompt responses to complaints, while cautioning against misinformation and its consequences, citing the EndSARS protests. Similarly, Mr. Nor Chia Shaku, Delta State Coordinator of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), reaffirmed the Commission’s readiness to work with the Command, stressing that its mandate is to promote human rights through constructive engagement rather than antagonism.
Also speaking, Pastor Edewor Egedegbe highlighted the role of civil society in promoting good governance, civic education, peacebuilding, community mobilisation and public accountability. He urged citizens to respect the law, reject violence and participate responsibly in civic affairs. In the same vein, Comrade Efemena Akhima cautioned human rights advocates against circulating false or unverified information, particularly on social media, emphasising the need for accuracy, responsibility and integrity in public communication.
In his remarks, CP Samuel E. Erale, psc, mnips, acknowledged the critical role of civil society in promoting accountability and strengthening public confidence in policing. He reiterated the Command’s commitment to professionalism, respect for fundamental human rights and zero tolerance for extortion and other forms of misconduct. Addressing concerns and questions raised by participants, the CP assured stakeholders of improved accessibility, prompt attention to legitimate complaints and sustained engagement with the Command, reaffirming the determination to build a relationship with civil society founded on mutual trust, transparency and shared responsibility for peace and security across Delta State.
SP. BRIGHT EDAFE, ANIPR, FCIA, FIPMD
POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER,
DELTA STATE COMMAND,
ASABA
21st October, 2026
