By Austin Oyibode
Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North in the National Assembly, has voiced serious concern over the rising insecurity plaguing communities across Delta North, warning of its crippling effect on agriculture and rural livelihoods.
Speaking during a recent Senate plenary, Nwoko painted a bleak picture of his constituency, where farmers are under constant threat from armed herdsmen.
“Insecurity is everywhere,” he said. “I come from Delta North. In every farm in Delta, there are herdsmen terrorising and killing our farmers. Our farmers can no longer go to farm.”
Despite the region’s significant oil wealth, the Senator emphasized that many residents depend on farming — a livelihood now endangered by violence and environmental degradation.
“The areas that are not degraded cannot be farmed because of herdsmen”.
Senator Nwoko called for a more localized approach to security, urging state governments to take proactive steps.
“We need to ask state governors to make efforts in this regard,” he said, adding: “Everything cannot be left to the federal government. The state governments must also form and fund vigilantes in every community.”
Backing his words with action, Senator Nwoko launched a security empowerment initiative on December 17, 2024, where over 60 vigilante operatives from Delta North were trained and equipped with communication gadgets.
The program, held at his senatorial office in Asaba in collaboration with the Defence Space Administration, was aimed at strengthening grassroots security structures.
Represented at the event by his Director of Security, Comrade Joshua Opia, Nwoko reiterated his commitment to peace and social stability, which he described as essential for development.
“The progress of Delta North and Nigeria in general remains the centerpiece of my legislative agenda,” he said.
Nwoko, a known advocate for the creation of Anioma State and champion of human empowerment, underscored the vital role of local vigilantes in safeguarding rural communities.
He urged participants to remain focused and disciplined, assuring them that their dedication would not go unrewarded.
Leaders of vigilante groups from various Anioma communities also shared their experiences and pledged continued commitment to community security.
Among those who spoke were Monday Chukwuji and Awaji Chukwuka from Ndokwa/Ukwuani, Chukwuma Nwoko and Nwankwo Francis Ikezue from Aniocha/Oshimili, and Idehen Alfred from the Ika area.
As security challenges persist across Nigeria, particularly in farming communities, Nwoko’s call adds urgency to the demand for decentralized, community-based security solutions.
