By Jimitota Onoyume

President  of Niger Delta Youth  Council , NDYC, Comrade Chief Bene Mamamu , has called on communities in the region to be vigilant and report suspicious movement in their areas to security operatives.

“While we do not encourage lawlessness or the creation of unauthorized security outfits, it is clear that communities must support government security agencies through heightened vigilance, intelligence sharing, and organized community watch systems”, he said.

Speaking against the backdrop of security challenges in the northern parts of the country Mamamu said increasing cases  of acts of banditry and kidnappings in several parts of the country were worrisome,  adding that residents of various communities should be conscious of   their environments to detect any strange movement.

“The rise in mass abductions and general banditry has triggered widespread calls for citizens, including youths to be vigilant “, he said .

Mamamu expressed fear that the ugly situation could spill over to the Niger Delta region  if urgent steps were not taken to contain the situation .

“The Niger Delta cannot assume that we are insulated from the troubles facing other regions.

“We must be proactive. Security threats do not respect geographic boundaries. If we fail to act now, the consequences could be devastating”, he said.

The youth leader commended President Tinubu for declaring security emergencies , appealing also for increased deployment of security personnel to the riverine communities in the Niger Delta.

Mamamu further encouraged traditional institutions, community leaders, youth groups and vigilante bodies across the region to close ranks , work closely with security agencies to ensure early detection and swift response to any suspicious movement or activity.

“It is very important at this time for youths in the Niger Delta region to prepare, if necessary, to support security agencies and to ensure proper community vigilance.

“Security is everyone’s responsibility, and we must all rise to protect our communities “, he said .

The NDYC President pledged that the council would continue to engage government authorities, security institutions, and civil society groups to advance peace, safety, and stability across the region.