In a bold and commendable legislative move, the Delta State House of Assembly has passed the State Community Security Corps Bill, marking what many see as a significant turning point in the fight against insecurity in the region. Hon. Kenneth Gbandi, former African Democratic Congress (ADC) Senatorial Candidate for Delta North in 2023 and currently the ADC Deputy National Chairman for Diaspora Affairs, has praised the passage of the bill as a historic step forward in safeguarding lives, farmlands, and livelihoods in the state.
Gbandi, a long-time advocate for proactive security reforms and community-based responses to violence, insecurity, and lawlessness, especially in rural areas and urged Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to sign the bill into law without delay. “This is not just another piece of legislation,” Gbandi remarked. “It is a decisive intervention at a time when our farmers, rural dwellers, and citizens are crying out for protection from banditry, herdsmen attacks, and general insecurity.”
Gbandi, who had previously criticized both state and federal authorities for failing to protect farmers from violent attacks and illegal open grazing, noted that the bill aligns with the broader calls for regional security frameworks. He once advocated for a united legal action by farmers against state governments for their failure to enforce anti-open grazing laws. At the time, he made a strong plea: “Nigerians in the Diaspora are ready to stand behind a mass action to hold these governments accountable.”
According to Gbandi, the continued tolerance of open grazing and failure to enforce security laws have not only endangered lives but have also crippled agricultural productivity, deepened economic hardship, and escalated the cost of food across the nation. “This situation is unsustainable,” he said. “We cannot keep losing farmers and farmlands to insecurity and expect food security or economic growth.”
He further commended the Delta Assembly for responding to the people’s cry with swift legislative action and urged the House leadership to finish strong by working with the Executive to see the bill signed and fully operationalized. Gbandi emphasized that the Community Security Corps could become a model for other states if backed with the necessary political will and community engagement.
“This bill must not become another document gathering dust,” he cautioned. “It must become the legal foundation for a grassroots-driven security network, protecting our communities, reclaiming our farmlands, and restoring the confidence of Delta residents in government protection.”
As insecurity continues to weigh heavily on Nigeria’s socio-economic stability, the Delta Assembly’s action and the strong Diaspora backing it receives from leaders like Hon. Gbandi offers a glimmer of hope that people-centered solutions are still possible in Nigeria. The spotlight now shifts to the Executive arm to act swiftly, decisively, and in the interest of all Deltans.
African Heritage Magazine, the Voice of African Excellence both at home and in the Diaspora: www.africanheritagemagazine.de
