A human rights activist, Mr Victor Ojei, has petitioned the Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, over the alleged breach of the state’s anti-open grazing law and hindering efforts of the Livestock Management Committee by some Divisional Police Officers.
Ojei, who is the Lead Activist of Young Nigerian Rights Organization frowned at the activities of DPOs in Aboh and Ashaka divisions, which he said have significantly hampered the efforts of the Delta State Livestock Management Committee.
The petition titled ‘Petition Against the Activities of the Divisional Police Officers of Aboh and Ashaka Divisions Hindering Effective Livestock Management and Community Safety,’ and the acknowledged copy was made available to on Monday in Asaba.
The petition, addressed to the Delta State Commissioner of Police, and copied to the Inspector General of Police and the Attorney-General, Ministry of Justice, Asaba, Delta State, reads, “The Young Nigerian Rights Organization in its capacity as a petitioner advocating for accountability and transparency, respectfully submits this petition on behalf of a concerned citizen actively involved in Delta State Livestock Management.
“This petition is filed to draw your attention to the activities of the DPOs in Aboh and Ashaka, which have significantly hampered the efforts of the Delta State Livestock Management Committee and the general security in the region.
“The unlawful release of arrested suspects: In Ashaka Division, suspects are arrested for offences related to livestock damage and anti-grazing laws and released without the knowledge or consent of the complainant or the Delta State Livestock Management Committee.
“This undermines the enforcement of the Delta State Anti-Grazing Law and frustrates efforts to bring offenders to justice. The DPO of Aboh Division has bluntly refused to collaborate with the operatives of the Delta State Livestock Management Committee, dismissing their authority and hindering their lawful operations.
“This lack of cooperation jeopardizes community trust and effective management of herders and farmers’ issues.
“The DPO of Ashaka Division has also released prime suspects in theft cases affecting the complainant’s personal property, including a generator, zinc bundles, and a motorbike, without due process. Attempts to seek explanations were met with dismissive responses, undermining transparency and accountability.
“Ashaka division has become a hub for financial exploitation, where seized motorcycles are released only upon payment of N10,000 or more. Such actions contradict the Police Act, which emphasizes professionalism, accountability, and respect for citizens’ rights.
“Section four of the Police Act mandates the police to protect lives, uphold justice, and maintain public order without prejudice; section five emphasizes accountability and transparency in police operations, while section 12 prohibits corruption and abuse of power.
“We, therefore, call for an immediate investigation into the activities of the DPOs in Aboh and Ashaka divisions of the Nigeria Police, focusing on their handling of cases involving the Delta State Livestock Management Committee and complaints from the public.
“Enforcement of accountability measures under the Police Act to address corruption, extortion, and abuse of authority within these divisions.
“The Young Nigerian Rights Organization remains committed to promoting justice and ensuring accountability in public institutions and expects the CP Abaniwonda Olufemi to act promptly to address these concerns to prevent further deterioration of security and public trust in the affected divisions.”
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