By Wilson Macaulay
In recent weeks, the Warri and Effurun Metropolis witnessed an alarming surge in violent crimes that left residents in fear and desperation. From shootings to kidnappings, the once bustling urban cities have become synonymous with insecurity and danger. This disturbing trend demands urgent and decisive action from the state government to protect the lives and property of its citizens.
On August 18, 2024, a police officer was reported shot on Commissioner Road, off Uti Street in Effurun. The incident sent shockwaves throughout the community, as the brazen attack on law enforcement personnel signaled a growing disregard for security forces. Just two weeks later, on September 2, 2024, the situation escalated further when two police officers and a driver were shot dead in a similar attack. The woman Mrs Uroye who was the main target was abducted . She only escaped death by whiskers .
These back-to-back incidents are only a few among a string of atrocities that have plagued Warri and Effurun Metropolis.
The rising wave of criminal activities in these urban cities has become a source of grave concern for both residents and business owners. From armed robbery to kidnappings, the Warri -Effurun Metropolis has become a hotspot for violent crimes, eroding the sense of safety that citizens once enjoyed in the oil City. The business community, a significant driver of the state’s economy, is particularly worried about the impact of insecurity on commercial activities. Many business owners are now reconsidering their investments in the area, as the fear of crime threatens to overshadow economic growth.
Residents are calling for urgent and innovative measures to tackle this menace. One effective solution that has proven successful in many other urban centers worldwide is the installation of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras in strategic locations and major roads. The deployment of CCTV cameras has become a critical tool in modern policing, providing law enforcement agencies with real-time monitoring, evidence gathering, and crime prevention capabilities.
Delta State, under the leadership of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori MORE AGENDA has made significant strides in infrastructure development, but the time has come to prioritize security infrastructure. Installing CCTV cameras at strategic points across Warri and Effurun can serve as both a deterrent to criminals and a vital resource for tracking down perpetrators of violence. Key areas such as , major highways, and densely populated business districts need to be covered comprehensively by surveillance systems.
The advantages of CCTV cameras are manifold. First, their presence alone acts as a powerful deterrent to criminals who know their actions are being recorded and could be traced. Secondly, in the unfortunate event that a crime occurs, recorded footage from CCTV cameras can provide crucial evidence to law enforcement agencies, aiding investigations and helping to identify and apprehend suspects. Finally, constant surveillance can improve police response times to incidents, as real-time monitoring enables security personnel to react more swiftly to emergencies.
Furthermore, integrating CCTV systems with a central command center for security agencies can enable more coordinated and effective policing.
By monitoring high-risk areas and dispatching patrols as needed, security forces can proactively prevent criminal activities before they escalate into serious incidents. This level of surveillance will significantly enhance public safety and reduce the incidence of violent crimes in Warri and Effurun Metropolis.
While we allude that CCTV cameras are not a standalone solution to insecurity, they are a critical part of a broader security strategy that includes increased police presence, community policing, and intelligence gathering. It is essential for the Delta State Government to collaborate closely with security agencies, local communities, and business leaders to develop a comprehensive plan that addresses the root causes of crime while leveraging on modern technology to enhance security.
I strongly recommend that the Delta State Government should reach out to the Nigerian Delta born Engr Ogaga Akpofure Who is a practicing security expert based in Missouri, USA.
He owns a Security Company called Karzame Technology Limited Which specializes in Security network. He assured me when we chatted that all he wanted is the Delta State Government readiness for patronage.
As the Delta State Government seeks to maintain peace and stability, the safety of its citizens must be prioritized. Residents and business owners of Warri and Effurun are urging Governor Oborevwori to take decisive action by installing CCTV cameras in strategic locations across the Metropolis. This move will not only restore confidence in public safety but will also send a strong signal to criminals that their actions will not go unpunished.
The people of Delta State deserve to live and work in an environment free from fear. By embracing modern security technologies, the state government can create a safer and more secure Delta, where residents and businesses alike can thrive.
We hope and trust that this germane suggestion will not be treated with kid gloves. Since our amiable Governor is a man with listening ear. We have reason to believe that something will be done any time from now.
Wilson Macaulay is the Anchor of the Column titled : The Prism of The Ruled
