The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Sapele Main Station, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Johnbull Obioguru, has received a lifetime achievement award from Delta Observer Media in recognition of his contributions to security and infrastructural transformation in Sapele, Delta State.
The award ceremony was led by Hon. Richard Ogirisen, the immediate past Councilor of Ward One in Sapele, and Engineer Ediri Fregene. Both praised CSP Obioguru for his efforts in repositioning the police station and improving public safety.
TJ News Nigeria reports that the event attracted journalists, civil society leaders, and members of the Sapele community who applauded the DPO for turning the Sapele Police Main Station into what was described as a “world-class facility.”
Transforming Sapele Police Station
CSP Obioguru, who once lived in Sapele and attended Sapele Technical College, has overseen extensive renovations at the divisional headquarters since assuming office.
Among his achievements:
- Installation of CCTV surveillance across the station to monitor criminal activities.
- Improved electricity supply and lighting, making the premises more secure and accessible.
- Upgraded facilities and environment, ensuring better working conditions for officers.
- Enhanced patrol systems, expanding security coverage in Sapele Local Government Area.
Community leaders, including Comrade Ejiro Odebala, commended the officer for addressing long-standing infrastructural challenges at the station. Odebala noted that CSP Obioguru’s intervention had helped restore confidence in law enforcement and improved the station’s image.
Reduced Crime Rates in Sapele
Residents testified that criminal activities in parts of Sapele, particularly around the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) area of Amukpe, have significantly reduced under Obioguru’s leadership.
The DPO explained that although it is difficult to eradicate crime completely, proactive strategies have been implemented to curb insecurity. These include:
- Increased community-based patrols in crime-prone areas.
- Deployment of officers to sensitive zones like Amukpe and the port axis.
- Close monitoring of theft cases, including incidents of stolen musical instruments from churches.
CSP Obioguru emphasized that Sapele would no longer be a safe haven for criminals, assuring residents that policing strategies will continue to evolve to meet emerging security challenges.
Community Appeals and Support
During the award presentation, stakeholders also appealed to the DPO to extend his reforms to the Marine Police Division at Sapele Port, an area considered vital for maritime safety and anti-smuggling operations.
The event featured remarks from Mrs. Abdulkareem Gertrude, who delivered the vote of thanks, urging residents to continue supporting the police leadership. She expressed optimism that with dedication and divine guidance, security in Sapele would continue to improve.
Media Presence at the Event
The award ceremony was witnessed by several media houses, including Delta Observer News, TJ News Nigeria, Rero TV, and Sapele Mirror TV.
In his acceptance speech, CSP Obioguru thanked the organizers and the media for recognizing his efforts. He said:
“When I came here, things were not okay. I decided to take a different approach because Sapele is my home. I promised myself to transform this station and ensure that our people feel safe. With the support of my team, we have put measures in place to improve security, especially in the NDDC area. While crime cannot be eliminated entirely, we are making progress, and Sapele will not be conducive for criminals.”
