Commissioner of Police meets Eleme chiefs, addresses security concerns

The Commissioner of Police, Rivers State, CP Olugbenga .A. Adepoju has convened a crucial security meeting with traditional rulers, chiefs, and elders of Eleme Kingdom to address pressing security challenges and recent protest activities in the area.

The meeting, held on February 20, 2025, at the Police Headquarters in Port Harcourt, focused on rising security threats in Eleme, particularly cultism, kidnapping, armed robbery, land disputes, and unauthorized protests. CP Adepoju emphasized that cult activities were primarily carried out by indigenous youths and children of tenants living in the community rather than outsiders. He also noted that both herdsmen and some indigenous individuals were involved in kidnapping cases.

A recent kidnapping attempt on a Dutch national at the Aleto Bridge on the East West Road was discussed, with the Commissioner commending the swift intervention of the police and the Eleme LGA Chairman in restoring calm, though the perpetrators remain at large.

CP Adepoju also expressed concerns over what he termed “unnecessary protests” at the Ogale Shell Manifold, stressing that any protest must be officially notified to the police for assessment. He urged the community to engage in dialogue with relevant organizations rather than resorting to demonstrations.

The Commissioner called for stronger collaboration between the police and the community, emphasizing that security is a collective responsibility. The chiefs and elders in attendance agreed on the need for proactive measures to restore peace and ensure the safety of residents.

Key stakeholders present at the meeting included the Oneh Eh Nchia X, His Royal Highness King Dr. Appolus Chu, the Chairman of Eleme Local Government Area, Hon. Brain Gokpa, His Eminence Archbishop C. Kattey, Chief Peter Olukawi, and several other Chiefs and Elders from Eleme.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from all parties to work together in tackli insecurity and promoting law and order in Eleme Kingdom.