The Delta State Government is facing serious backlash following its controversial response to peaceful protests in Abraka, where citizens came out to express deep frustration over the alarming rise in kidnapping and insecurity.
Instead of addressing the people’s fears and demands for safety, the government reportedly deployed military personnel—some of whom were caught on video firing at unarmed protesters. This has sparked outrage among human rights advocates, student leaders, and members of the press.
The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF), in a statement released today, condemned what it called a gross misuse of power and a failure in leadership. The statement, signed by Chairman Emmanuel Enebeli and Secretary Shedrack Onitsha, pointed out that the government’s actions show a deep disconnect from the everyday reality faced by the people.
“In a time when communities are under siege by kidnappers and criminals, the government chose to send soldiers—not to fight the criminals, but to suppress peaceful voices asking for help,” the publishers said.
The protest in Abraka was led by students, residents, and local community members. Among those present were notable student leaders such as:
- Comrade Onos Austin, President of the Students’ Union Government (SUG),
- Comrade Tennyo, Vice President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS),
- Comrade Okoh Ezekiel, Executive Assistant to the Governor on Student Affairs.
Their involvement showed how deeply the issue of insecurity has affected young people and the general public in the town, which hosts one of the state’s major universities.
The DOPF criticized the state government for failing to live up to its promises. Only recently, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had assured the public during his “State of the State” address that his administration was committed to protecting lives and property.
“What happened in Abraka tells a different story. Instead of solutions, the people got gunfire,” the DOPF stated.
The Forum noted the irony that while the military is often slow to respond to actual criminal attacks, they were quick to mobilize against peaceful civilians, adding that this sends a dangerous message: “Speaking up can get you shot.”
This isn’t the first time excessive force has led to public outrage in Delta State. The DOPF referenced the Okuama tragedy as a painful reminder of the consequences of using military force on civilians, warning that history must not repeat itself.
The publishers urged the Delta and Federal Governments to rethink their strategy, stop using brute force as a first response, and instead engage in real dialogue with citizens.
“Real leadership means listening and protecting—not silencing and attacking,” they said.
As tension remains high in Abraka and beyond, more voices are calling on the government to shift its focus from media optics to actual security reforms that will protect communities from violence—not punish them for crying out.
