Growing incidents of vandalism and theft across communities in Ndokwa land, Delta State, have heightened security concerns, with the Ndokwa Neku Union, NNU, calling for greater vigilance and community participation in the fight against crime.
The apex socio-cultural organisation of the Ndokwa people said the recent spate of criminal activities, particularly in Utagba-Ogbe, poses a threat to the development of the area and could undermine efforts to sustain peace and economic growth in the region.
The union also disclosed that it was strengthening collaboration with security agencies and community stakeholders to tackle the challenge.
It further announced plans to convene the Ndokwa General Assembly later this month to deliberate on the worsening security situation and chart a way forward.
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In a statement signed by its President-General, Chief Amechi Asugwuni, and Secretary-General, Jimoh Egwali, the NNU condemned the activities of criminals operating in the area.
"The National Executive Council of the Ndokwa Neku Union condemns in the strongest terms every act of criminality being perpetrated by hoodlums within our communities.
"The recent incidents of vandalism and theft recorded across Ndokwa land, particularly in Utagba-Ogbe, are inimical to the growth and development of our communities and reflect a complete lack of patriotism," the statement said.
The union urged residents to support ongoing efforts to protect lives, property and community assets.
"We call on all well-meaning Ndokwa people to collectively condemn these acts and support efforts aimed at safeguarding our common heritage and development," it stated.
The NNU assured residents of its commitment to working closely with security agencies to improve safety across the area.
"The leadership of the NNU remains committed to partnering with relevant security agencies to ensure the safety of lives and property across Ndokwa land. Anyone found culpable in these criminal activities will be prosecuted and made to face the full weight of the law," the statement added.
The union also referenced resolutions reached at a recent security summit in Delta State, which emphasised the strengthening of local vigilante structures as a strategy for maintaining peace and economic stability.
According to the statement, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had assured stakeholders that resolutions from the summit would be implemented and urged community leaders to take active roles in addressing security challenges.
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As part of efforts to address the situation, the NNU said the Ndokwa General Assembly, the union's highest decision-making organ, would meet on June 27, 2026, with security issues topping the agenda.
It called on Ndokwa people to remain vigilant, law-abiding and supportive of security agencies in the collective effort to make the area safer and more prosperous.
