Frequent Change of Delta Police Commissioners Raises Stability Concerns, Says CDHR

The Delta State chapter of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has raised concerns over the frequent changes in the leadership of the Delta State Police Command, revealing that the state has had three Commissioners of Police within the past seven months.

According to its Chairman, Comrade Derrick Oritsematosan Agberen, and Publicity Secretary, Comrade Nosa Oveseey Godswill, the group said it was not questioning the internal decisions of the Nigeria Police Force but noted that the repeated redeployment of police commissioners could affect continuity in tackling Delta’s security challenges.

According to the organisation, the trend has placed unusual attention on the office of the Commissioner of Police in Delta State, particularly amid recent security concerns across the state.

Despite its reservations, the rights group welcomed the appointment of the new Commissioner of Police, CP Samuel Erale Etaifo, describing his deployment as a step towards promoting fairness, equity and the federal character principle in the appointment of heads of security agencies.

The CDHR also observed that leadership positions in key security agencies have, over the years, appeared concentrated in certain regions, adding that the appointment of a South-South indigene to head the Delta Police Command reflects a more inclusive approach.

It urged the authorities to extend the same principle of balanced representation to other security institutions nationwide.

While congratulating CP Etaifo, the group called on him to strengthen security across Delta State, uphold the rule of law and human rights, enforce discipline within the Police Force, maintain zero tolerance for crime and misconduct, and deepen collaboration with communities and civil society organisations.

The organisation reaffirmed its readiness to work with the new police commissioner, expressing hope that his tenure would enhance public confidence in policing and improve safety and justice across Delta State.