The Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State, Hon. Dr. Gift Worlu, has addressed the people of Woji during a one-day Security Summit organized by HRH Eze Amb. Sir Dr. Emeka G. Ihunwo, JP, FCAI, Paramount Ruler/Nyewe-Eli of Woji Community.
The summit, held at the Woji Community Town Hall, focused on addressing pressing issues of insecurity, land grabbing, drug abuse, and the importance of voter registration.
In his remarks, Hon. Dr. Worlu, represented by the Vice Chairman, Hon. Dr. Joyce Nyeche, commended HRH Eze Ihunwo for convening the summit, stressing the importance of community engagement. He said:
“We believe in town hall meetings where people interact and identify challenges. When we know our problems, we can solve them. But when we don’t, it becomes a difficult ball game. Our slogan remains: a people united can never be defeated; united we stand, divided we fall.”
Dr. Worlu emphasized the collective role of residents in tackling insecurity, urging them to report suspicious activities and cooperate with security agencies.
“If you don’t report wrongdoings in your community, government cannot help you. When you see strange movements, abnormal behaviors, or know of criminal hideouts, report them. Insecurity starts with us—know your tenants, know what they do. We cannot afford to live in ignorance.”
The Chairman condemned the rising trend of land grabbing in Obio/Akpor, describing it as a menace often aided by insiders: “It is only the rat inside the house that invites the one outside to eat the fish. If our people were not involved, we would not have these many complaints. By God’s grace, we will fight it.”
He also raised concerns over the increasing rate of drug abuse, particularly among youths: “Our children are wasting away because of drugs. Many of the sellers don’t even use it themselves, but they distribute it, destroying lives and generations. Parents must take responsibility, expose drug dealers, and protect their children. If this generation is wasted, what will they pass to the next?”
Dr. Worlu further highlighted the link between drug abuse and crime, calling for decisive community action:
“Those selling hard drugs are living among us. They don’t deserve to be in our community. Let us push them out before government intervention. Even in schools, students now disguise alcohol and drugs in bottles. Parents, watch your children closely.”
Encouraging active participation in voter registration ahead of the 2027 elections, the Chairman said: “Voter registration helps elevate your community and determines allocations. Engage your tenants and neighbors—registration is very important.”
In his response, HRH Eze Ihunwo declared ‘Operation Pack and Go’ against hard drug dealers in Woji community: “If you are a son, indigene, or resident of Woji and you sell drugs, you have until Sunday. From Monday, it will be fire for fire.”
He condemned fraudulent land transactions, cultism, and social vices, while urging residents to embrace unity and development:
“No community grows with indigenes alone. Development comes when indigenes and non-indigenes contribute together. Let us not destroy our society but work to reduce the burdens of government.”
Also speaking, ACP Lawan Yunus, Area Commander of Mini-Okoro Police Division, provided security tips covering personal safety, home fortification, cybercrime prevention, and road safety during the Ember months.
On his part, Dr. Wokoma Amachree, Managing Director of RIWAMA, educated residents on proper waste management practices, including reuse, recycling, and proper disposal. He warned against dumping refuse on roadsides, stressing the health hazards of improper waste disposal.
The summit ended with a resounding call for collective responsibility in securing Woji, curbing land grabbing, fighting drug abuse, and building a safer and healthier community.
Office of the Chairman, Obio/Akpor LGA, Rivers State
October 3, 2025
