The newly appointed Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Aina Adesola, formally assumed office with a firm pledge to reduce crime to the barest minimum, as concerns over kidnapping, cultism, armed robbery and community-related violence continue to test security efforts in the state.
Speaking on Monday January 5, 2026, at his inaugural press briefing in Asaba, CP Adesola said his appointment as the 23rd Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, comes with a clear mandate from the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, to strengthen security architecture and guarantee the safety of lives and property across the state.
While expressing gratitude to the IGP for the confidence reposed in him, the new police boss underscored that Delta State’s status as a major economic hub makes security non-negotiable, warning that no society or economy can thrive under persistent insecurity.
His remarks come amid rising public expectations for decisive action against violent crime and criminal networks operating within parts of the state.
CP Adesola, who described Delta as central to his policing career, recalled serving in the state as a young officer after graduating from the Police Academy and later as Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations.
He said those experiences have prepared him for the complex security challenges he now inherits as Commissioner.
In a notable nod to continuity, the police chief commended his predecessor, AIG Olufemi Abaniwonda, for laying operational foundations he intends to build upon.
However, he signalled a more assertive phase of policing, stressing that his leadership would be anchored on intelligence-led operations, proactive crime prevention, community policing, and strict respect for human rights.
Beyond rhetoric, CP Adesola outlined priority crime areas including kidnapping, armed robbery, cult-related violence and communal conflicts, stating that the Command would intensify collaboration with sister security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders and the Delta State Government.
Observers note that such inter-agency cooperation has often been promised in the past, making effective implementation a key test of the new commissioner’s leadership.
The Commissioner also issued a stern internal warning, declaring zero tolerance for misconduct within the Force.
He said acts of extortion, abuse of office, incivility and human rights violations by police officers would not be condoned, a statement likely aimed at rebuilding public trust amid longstanding complaints of police excesses.
Recognising the limits of force-based policing, CP Adesola appealed to residents to see security as a collective responsibility, urging citizens to volunteer credible intelligence through lawful channels.
He also described the media as a critical partner, calling for professionalism and objectivity in reporting security matters.
As Delta residents await concrete results, CP Adesola’s tenure begins under intense public scrutiny.
His success, analysts say, will depend not only on strategy and enforcement, but on translating promises of reform, accountability and community engagement into measurable improvements in safety across the state.
