By Odita Sunday
The Delta State Police Command has ordered a massive security deployment for the 2026 Annual New Yam Festival of Onicha-Olona Community, warning that anyone who attempts to turn the celebration into a platform for violence or criminality will be arrested and prosecuted.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, saying the festival is scheduled to hold from September 13 to 26, 2026.
According to Edafe, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Samuel Etaifo Erale, has directed the deployment of personnel to the festival grounds, major entry and exit routes, identified flashpoints and other strategic locations within the community.
He said patrol and traffic teams had also been deployed to adjoining routes to regulate vehicular movement and respond promptly to incidents throughout the festival period.
Edafe said the commissioner warned that the command would not tolerate violence, cult-related activities, fighting, possession or use of firearms and other dangerous weapons, harassment, intimidation or any act capable of disturbing public peace.
He said Erale specifically cautioned individuals and groups against using the festival to settle personal disputes, engage in reprisals or perpetrate criminal acts.
“Anyone found violating the law will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly,” Edafe quoted the commissioner as warning.
The police spokesman urged residents and visitors to celebrate peacefully and cooperate with officers deployed for the festival.
He advised parents and guardians to keep proper watch over their children and wards, while motorists were urged to drive responsibly and comply with traffic directives.
Edafe also urged members of the public to avoid confrontations, refrain from taking the law into their own hands and promptly report suspicious persons, threats or disturbances to the police.
He said the commissioner had assured the people of Onicha-Olona and visitors that officers deployed for the festival had been directed to remain vigilant, professional and responsive throughout the celebration.
Edafe added that Erale urged traditional and community leaders, youths and other stakeholders to support the police in preserving the peace for which the festival is intended.
The command advised members of the public who require emergency assistance or prompt police response to contact its control room on 08036684974, 08114895600 or 08025666914, or report to the nearest police station.
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