From Francis Sadhere, DeltaThe Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has called on the State House of Assembly to completely discard the existing community security law and replace it with a more functional and inclusive framework aimed at tackling growing insecurity at the grassroots level.In a detailed memorandum presented during a public hearing held at the Assembly Complex in Asaba, the Forum insisted that the previous law had failed in both purpose and execution, citing a lack of implementation mechanisms, vague operational structures and the exclusion of key stakeholders.

The public hearing was convened by the House Joint Committee on Bills and the Committee on Peace and Security, led by the Majority Leader, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi and Hon. Chief Isaac Anwuzia, respectively.Representing the Forum were its Vice Chairman, Chukwudi Abiandu, and member, Christy Agboje. They urged the lawmakers not to view the exercise as a mere amendment, but rather a “complete legislative rebirth” to address persistent security gaps across Delta’s communities.“The existing legislation is not only obsolete but also devoid of any real implementation framework,” Abiandu stated. “The new law must be grassroots-oriented, inclusive, and reflective of the unique security needs of Delta communities.”DOPF outlined key proposals for the new bill, including: Establishment of a clearly defined governance structure for the Community Security Corps, Creation of a dedicated media and communications unit, and Recruitment of personnel through local government authorities, Robust funding through statutory allocations and corporate partnerships, Inclusion of traditional rulers, civil society groups, women, youth, and media professionals in advisory roles at both state and local levels.The Forum recommended a phased implementation strategy, with the agency expected to be fully operational within 12 months of the law’s enactment. It also stressed the need for regular performance reviews, strong legislative oversight, and collaboration with the media to ensure transparency and efficiency.Commending the Assembly’s initiative to revisit the law, the Forum said the move was both timely and bold, especially as insecurity continues to escalate across rural communities in the state.DOPF reaffirmed its commitment to supporting legislative efforts and public sensitization campaigns, urging the lawmakers to ensure the new law aligns with human rights standards, local realities, and international best practices in community policing.The Forum’s advocacy for security reform is longstanding. It first raised the issue in a communiqué issued during its Audience Participatory Programme on November 12, 2020, themed “Aftermath of #EndSARS Protest: The Way Forward.” The push continued with a courtesy visit to the Speaker of the House on September 25, 2024, and was reinforced during its 5th Annual Lecture in November 2024, where local implementation strategies were emphasized.In a recent statement, DOPF also called on governors, particularly in the South, to prioritize security as a matter of strategic urgency, warning that the growing wave of insecurity was spreading rapidly across the region.As the Delta State House of Assembly considers the Forum’s proposals, all eyes are now on the legislature to chart a new course for grassroots security in the state.