NDYC calls for investigation into the Abraka unrest

The Niger Delta Youth Council of Nigeria has expressed deep concern over the recent violent clash in Abraka, Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta State which tragically claimed the lives of four suspected herdsmen and two innocent sons of the community.

This was contained in a statement yesterday by Amb. Blessing Duke Adogbeji, President NDYC.

According to the statement, "This unfortunate incident, which occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, June 4, 2025, comes barely 48 hours after a peaceful protest organized by concerned residents and student leaders of Abraka against the increasing cases of kidnapping in the area. 

"During the confrontation, local hunters reportedly recovered an AK-47 and live ammunition—a clear indication of the growing threat of armed criminality and lawlessness in the region.

"We are deeply saddened by this tragic turn of events and strongly condemn all forms of violence. As a youth-led body committed to peace, unity, and sustainable development in the Niger Delta, we are calling for urgent deployment of a combined security task force comprising the military, police, and civil defense units to restore law and order in Abraka and its environs.

"It is equally imperative that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori urgently empowers local vigilantes and community hunters, who understand the terrain and can provide proactive community-based intelligence, to work in synergy with state security agencies.

"The Niger Delta region, especially communities like Abraka—which is home to the prestigious Delta State University—must not be allowed to descend into anarchy. The safety of students, residents, and businesses is non-negotiable, and we cannot afford to watch our educational and economic institutions crumble under the weight of insecurity.

"We stress that peaceful coexistence between all ethnic and social groups, including host communities and herders, is fundamental to long-term peace, economic growth, and prosperity. The cycles of violence, reprisal attacks, and growing mistrust only serve to undermine national unity and development.

"To this end, we call on the Federal Government, the Delta State Government, and all relevant security agencies to: Launch a full-scale investigation into the Abraka crisis and bring perpetrators to justice.

"Deploy joint security personnel to protect lives and properties in Abraka. Engage all stakeholders, including community leaders, student bodies, and representatives of herder groups, in dialogue and conflict resolution.

"Implement long-term security strategies, including ranching policies, to address the root causes of farmer-herder conflicts. Promote peace education and youth engagement programs to build mutual trust and shared responsibility for peace.

"We urge all residents of Abraka and the Niger Delta at large to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding, and to report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities. Violence is never the answer. It is only through collaboration, understanding, and justice that we can build a region that is secure, prosperous, and respected." It added.