By Abel Johngold Orheruata
As security deteriorates across Southern Nigeria, the Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has issued a strong call to action, urging governors of the region to rise to their constitutional responsibility and tackle the rising wave of violent crimes with urgency and decisiveness.
In a statement signed by Chairman Emmanuel Enebeli and Secretary-General Shedrack Onitsha, the DOPF expressed deep concern over the alarming spate of kidnappings, killings, and sexual violence being inflicted on innocent citizens, especially by criminals disguising as herdsmen and hunters.
“The situation has reached a breaking point,” the statement reads. “The continued silence or passive responses from our state governors is no longer acceptable.”
The Forum stressed that under the Land Use Act, state governors wield significant control over lands in their domains, and as such, must not stand idly by while citizens face terror and hardship on their ancestral lands. It called for “proactive leadership that prioritizes the safety of lives and property over political interest.”
DOPF also cited the example of the Emir of Muri, His Royal Highness Abbas Njidda Tafida of Taraba State, who recently gave a 30-day ultimatum to criminal herders to vacate his territory. The Forum challenged Southern leaders to emulate such boldness, quoting the Emir’s viral video in which he questioned the South’s leniency in the face of persistent attacks: “If people in the North can ask them to leave, why are Southerners treating them with leniency?”
Beyond calling for action from governors, the Forum warned against unvetted collaboration with traditional rulers and community leaders, citing intelligence reports that have implicated some in aiding criminal elements.
DOPF drew particular attention to recent bloodshed in Uromi, Edo State, where 16 persons were killed in a clash involving suspected herders. The group also highlighted rising fear among farmers in Delta State who have abandoned their farms, leading to deepening food insecurity and economic distress.
“These tragic events are calls to action, not just mere rhetoric,” the Forum emphasized.
Citing a recent directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Plateau State Governor to take ownership of the security situation in his state, DOPF called on Southern governors to follow suit and deploy all lawful means to secure their regions.
“The time for rhetoric is over,” the statement concluded. “Our people deserve peace, protection, and purposeful governance.”