By Sandra Kenneth
The King of Upata Kingdom in Ahoada East Local Government Area, His Royal Majesty, Eze Felix Otuwarikpo, has advocated for deeper collaboration between traditional institutions and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to protect critical national infrastructure in Rivers State.
The Nye-Udu Upata Otuwarikpo made the call during a courtesy visit alongside members of his Council of Chiefs to the NSCDC Rivers State Command headquarters in Port Harcourt.
Speaking during the visit, the monarch voiced deep concern over the persistent threat of oil theft and illegal bunkering, pointing out that such illicit activities severely harm the national economy, destroy the local environment, and jeopardize the livelihoods of residents in his domain.
To counter these threats, Eze Otuwarikpo assured the Corps of his kingdom’s readiness to gather and share actionable intelligence to safeguard infrastructure, lives, and property across Upata Kingdom.
He also congratulated the newly appointed State Commandant, Dr. Dennis Lesor-Reuben, while praising the officers and men of the Command for displaying high standards of professionalism and exemplary conduct in their duties.
In his response, Commandant Lesor-Reuben expressed gratitude to the monarch and his council for partnering with the security agency.
Reiterating the Command’s resolve, Dr. Lesor-Reuben affirmed that the NSCDC remains combat-ready to tackle sabotage and emerging security threats across Rivers State. He issued a stern warning to criminal elements, urging them to desist from illegal activities or face the full weight of the law.
