Young Nigerian Rights Organization has petitioned the Commissioner of Police in Delta State over activities of the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Aboh and Ashaka, alleging that the Officer was hindering effective livestock management activities.
See the full details of the petition.
The Commissioner of Police,
Delta State Police Command,
ASABA, Delta State.
Sir,
Petition Against the Activities of the Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) of Aboh and Ashaka Divisions Hindering Effective Livestock Management and Community Safety
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 Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) of Aboh and Ashaka Divisions, which have significantly hampered the efforts of the Delta State Livestock Management Committee and the general security in the region.
Summary of Issues:
1. Unlawful Release of Arrested Suspects:
In Ashaka Division, suspects are arrested for offenses related to livestock damage and anti-grazing laws are 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.
2. Refusal to Cooperate with State Livestock
Management Committee:
* The DPO of Aboh Division has bluntly refused to collaborate with 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.
3. Mismanagement of Case Proceedings:
* The DPO of Ashaka Division has 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.
4. Extortion and Abuse of Authority:
* Ashaka Division has reportedly become a hub for financial exploitation, where seized motorcycles are released only upon payment of ₦10,000 or more. Such actions contradict the Police Act, which emphasizes professionalism, accountability, and respect for citizens’ rights.
Relevant Provisions of the Police Act 2020:
* Section 4 of the Police Act mandates the police to protect lives, uphold justice, and maintain public order without prejudice.
* Section 5 emphasizes accountability and transparency in police operations, while Section 12 prohibits corruption and abuse of power.
Prayers:
1. Immediate investigation into the activities of the DPOs in Aboh and Ashaka Divisions, focusing on their handling of cases involving the Delta State Livestock Management Committee and complaints from the public.
2. Transfer of the DPOs in Aboh and Ashaka Divisions to ensure unbiased policing and restore public confidence in the police force.
3. Enforcement of accountability measures under the Police Act to address corruption, extortion, and abuse of authority within these divisions.
4. Deployment of competent and cooperative officers to replace the current DPOs to facilitate better collaboration with state agencies and community stakeholders.
Conclusion:
The Young Nigerian Rights Organization remains committed to promoting justice and ensuring accountability in public institutions. We trust that your office will act promptly to address these concerns to prevent further deterioration of security and public trust in the affected divisions.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. May God bless your efforts to uphold justice and transparency in Delta State and Nigeria at large.
Yours faithfully,
Comrade Victor Ojei (Wong Box)
Lead Activist,
Young Nigerian Rights Organization
Cc:
The Inspector General of Police,
Edet House,
Abuja, Nigeria.
The Attorney General,
Ministry of Justice, Asaba, Delta State.