Lagos — GOVERNOR Timipre Sylva of Bayelsa State has urged the Federal Government to stem the influx of small arms into the Niger Delta region through improved security.

He made the call yesterday during a retreat for Bayelsa State executive council, special advisers, and other top government officials at the Eko Tourist Beach Resort Lekki, Lagos State.

Sylva stressed that proliferation of arms in the region has heightened militancy in the area and called for concerted efforts to stem the tide.

The governor, however, said his administration is determined to address rising insecurity.

Sylva expressed joy that through his administration's efforts relative stability has returned to the state with most oil flow stations back on stream.

He equally unfolded some plans for the state including the establishment of waterfront development board, due process office and planning committee.

Pledging to deliver qualitative service to his people, Sylva solicited the co-operation of political office holders to achieve set goals.

Besides the governor's speech at the retreat, the chairman of Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPIC), Justice Emmanuel Ayoola delivered a paper entitled "Ethics, Transparency, Due Process and Accountability in Public Service."

Ayoola, who was represented by Mr. Godwin Adama reiterated the essence of anti-graft war by the Federal Government.