The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has accused certain officers of the Delta State Police Command of aiding and abetting land grabbing activities across the state. In a statement issued in Warri and signed by its National President, Dr. Kehinde P. Taiga, the group expressed deep concern over what it described as the growing involvement of law enforcement personnel in illegal land disputes. It warned that this development poses a significant threat to public trust and the rule of law.
Allegations Against Senior Police Officers
The organization questioned the alleged involvement of a senior police officer in such activities and called on the Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Yemi John Oyeniyi, to intervene and caution officers under his command. CDHR also named a certain Deputy Commissioner of Police, urging him to desist from any alleged collaboration with land grabbers. “The police are entrusted with the duty of protecting lives and property, not facilitating illegality and oppression,” Taiga said.
Clash Among Police Officers in Asaba
The group cited a recent incident in Asaba where police officers allegedly confronted one another while protecting rival interests linked to land grabbing operations. CDHR described the reported clash among officers as both embarrassing and dangerous, stating that it exposed a breakdown of discipline and professionalism within the force. “This embarrassing and dangerous development reflects a serious breakdown of discipline and professionalism within the force,” the statement added.
Threat of Public Protest
The rights group warned that failure by the police authorities to investigate and address the allegations could prompt public action. It threatened to mobilize more than 5,000 youths for a peaceful protest against the Delta State Police Command if decisive steps are not taken to ensure accountability. CDHR urged the police hierarchy to act promptly to restore public confidence, uphold the rule of law, and ensure that any officers found culpable are sanctioned in accordance with the law.
Police Denial
When contacted, the police spokesperson, Bright Edafe, denied the allegation, stating that officers are only involved in cases where lives and property are under threat.
