Friday October 2, 2026
By SituationREPORT
The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Samuel E. Erale, psc, mnips, has warned individuals, communities and groups against land grabbing and violence arising from land disputes across the state, particularly in the Amachai axis of Okpanam, Asaba, and other affected areas.
The warning follows reports of land disputes degenerating into confrontations and activities capable of threatening lives and disrupting public peace.
CP Erale cautioned against the forceful takeover of disputed land, encroachment on property, intimidation of lawful occupants, destruction of property and the use of thugs to enforce alleged claims of ownership.
He stressed that no claim to land, however strongly held, gives anyone the right to resort to force or self-help. Persons contesting ownership, possession, boundaries or other interests in land are advised to seek redress before a court of competent jurisdiction and allow the law to take its course.
The Commissioner further directed Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers across the state to respond promptly whenever land disputes involve criminality or pose a threat to public peace. Anyone found culpable of offences such as forcible entry, threats to life, assault, malicious damage or intimidation will be dealt with in accordance with the law.
