The Delta State Police Command has warned residents, visitors and participants against violence, cult activities and other criminal acts as the 2026 annual new yam festival of Onicha-Olona Community gets underway from September 13 to 26.
The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, Samuel Etaifo Erale, ordered the deployment of personnel to the festival grounds, major entry and exit routes, identified flashpoints and other strategic locations across the community to ensure a peaceful celebration.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, in a statement on Wednesday, September 9, said that the command also deployed patrol and traffic teams to adjoining routes to regulate vehicular movement and respond swiftly to emergencies throughout the festival period.
CP Erale warned that the Police would not tolerate fighting, cult-related activities, possession or use of firearms and other dangerous weapons, harassment, intimidation or any conduct capable of disrupting public peace.
He cautioned individuals and groups against using the festival as an avenue to settle personal disputes, carry out reprisals or engage in criminal activities, stressing that offenders would be arrested and prosecuted.
The Police Commissioner urged residents and visitors to celebrate peacefully and cooperate with officers deployed to the festival venues and surrounding areas.
He also advised parents and guardians to properly monitor their children and wards, while motorists were urged to drive responsibly and comply with traffic regulations and directives from traffic personnel.
Erale further called on members of the public to avoid confrontations and refrain from taking the law into their own hands, urging them to promptly report suspicious persons, threats or disturbances to the Police.
The Commissioner 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.
He also appealed to traditional and community leaders, youths and other stakeholders to support the Police in maintaining peace and ensuring that the festival is celebrated without violence.
