₦airaland Forum

OSPAC is a vigilante security group formed in 2016 in ONELGA, Rivers State, to combat crime, especially kidnapping, cultism, and armed robbery.

In the heart of Nigeria's Rivers State, the ONELGA Security Planning and Advisory Committee, popularly known as OSPAC, has played a significant role in community security. This article aims to explore its history, purpose, and the challenges it has faced over the years.

OSPAC History and Origin

Before 2016, parts of Rivers State, especially the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area (ONELGA), grappled with rising criminal activities. Traditional security measures seemed inadequate, leading communities to seek alternative solutions. In response, OSPAC was established in 2016 in Omoku by the Ogba Ndoni Egbema Local Government Care-Taker Committee Chairman, Barrister Osi Olisa in collaboration with His Royal Eminent (HRE) Eze Chukwuemenam Nnam Obi. This community-driven initiative aimed to combat crimes like kidnapping, cultism, and armed robbery by leveraging local knowledge and resources.

OSPAC's grassroots approach quickly gained traction. Neighboring communities observed its effectiveness and began adopting similar models. By 2018, OSPAC's influence had expanded beyond ONELGA, reaching various parts of Rivers State. Despite its widespread operations, OSPAC remained a community-based vigilante group, not officially integrated into the Nigerian Police Force.

OSPAC Purpose and Functions

OSPAC was established to serve as a community policing force, working alongside the Nigerian Police Force to ensure security in Rivers State. It was formed out of necessity, with clear objectives and methods that set it apart from conventional law enforcement.

1. Fighting Crime and Maintaining Order

OSPAC’s primary goal was to tackle crime head-on. The vigilante group aggressively pursued criminals, including kidnappers, cultists, and armed robbers, who had terrorized communities for years. Through strategic patrols and rapid response, OSPAC was able to drastically reduce crime rates in areas under its watch.

2. Assisting the Nigerian Police Force

Though not an official police unit, OSPAC worked hand in hand with law enforcement agencies. Whenever criminals were apprehended, OSPAC ensured that they were handed over to the police for proper investigation and prosecution. This collaboration significantly improved crime-fighting efforts in the state.

3. Community Intelligence and Security Surveillance

OSPAC members, being from the local communities, had deep knowledge of the terrain and the people. This allowed them to gather intelligence efficiently, identify threats, and preempt criminal activities before they escalated. Unlike the Nigerian Police, which often relied on external intelligence, OSPAC’s insider perspective made them more effective in tracking down criminals.

4. Spiritual Security Measures

One of the most unique aspects of OSPAC’s operations was its spiritual approach to security. The group believed in using traditional and spiritual methods to uncover criminals, detect lies, and administer justice. This added an extra layer of deterrence, as many criminals feared being exposed through supernatural means.

5. Community Trust and Engagement

Unlike the formal police force, which often struggled with community relations, OSPAC had the full trust of the people. Residents saw them as defenders of their communities, making them more willing to cooperate by providing information and support.

The presence of OSPAC in Rivers State brought a sense of security that had long been absent. Businesses flourished, nightlife returned, and residents could travel freely without the constant fear of being attacked or kidnapped.

OSPAC Issues and Controversies

Despite its achievements, OSPAC has not been without controversy. Over the years, the vigilante group has been caught in several issues that have threatened its existence and effectiveness.

1. Political Interference and Leadership Crisis

In 2023, when Governor Siminalayi Fubara took over from Governor Wike, OSPAC’s stability was shaken. Political forces sought to control the group, leading to leadership struggles. In Omoku, ONELGA—the birthplace of OSPAC—internal divisions emerged as different factions vied for control.

Local government officials began appointing new OSPAC leaders, sidelining the founding members. This move was seen as an attempt to politicize OSPAC, turning it into a tool for political battles rather than crime-fighting. The founding fathers of OSPAC resisted, arguing that the vigilante group should remain independent and focused on its core mission of community security.

2. Disbandment in Some Local Governments

As political interference grew, some local government chairmen disbanded OSPAC operations in their areas.
Emuoha Local Government: In 2023, the local government chairman dissolved OSPAC in the area and appointed new leaders who were loyal to him. This led to a power struggle and diminished OSPAC’s effectiveness in maintaining security.

Obio/Akpor Local Government: In 2024, Local Government Chairman Chijoke Ihunwo banned OSPAC completely in Obio/Akpor, only to later reinstate a new leadership loyal to him. This political manipulation weakened the organization and led to a rise in crime in affected communities.

3. Increased Crime Due to OSPAC’s Decline

With OSPAC losing its grip in many areas, criminals who had previously been chased out began returning. The disbandment of OSPAC in some local governments led to an increase in kidnappings, cult-related violence, and robberies. Many former OSPAC members became targets of revenge attacks, as criminals sought to eliminate those who had once opposed them.

4. Allegations of Human Rights Violations and criminal infiltration

While OSPAC gained praise for reducing crime, there were also allegations of human rights abuses. Reports emerged accusing some OSPAC members of unlawful detentions, excessive use of force, and even extrajudicial actions. These allegations fueled debates on whether OSPAC was acting within the boundaries of the law.

Also, there have been unsettling incidents where individuals within OSPAC were found engaging in criminal activities. A notable case involved the arrest of an OSPAC leader in July 2024, who was found in possession of human skulls and other illicit items.

Disadvantages of OSPAC’s Absence

The weakening or complete disbandment of OSPAC in some local governments has led to a resurgence of crime and insecurity. Here are some of the major consequences:

1. Increased Criminal Activities

Since OSPAC’s decline, Rivers State has witnessed a sharp rise in crime. Kidnappers, cultists, and armed robbers have resumed their activities in areas where OSPAC had previously maintained control.

2. Fear and Insecurity Among Residents

Before OSPAC, people lived in constant fear. With its decline, many communities are once again unsafe, affecting everyday activities like business, schooling, and transportation.

3. Burden on the Nigerian Police Force

OSPAC’s absence has put more pressure on the Nigerian Police Force, which already struggles with inadequate personnel and resources. The police alone cannot cover all areas effectively, leading to delayed response times and an inability to curb crime swiftly.

4. Economic Decline

A lack of security leads to economic downturns. Businesses close early, investors shy away, and markets lose customers due to fear of attacks. This creates financial hardship for many local traders and entrepreneurs.

5. Revenge Attacks on OSPAC Members

With OSPAC weakened, many of its members have become targets for retaliation. Criminals who were previously expelled from the communities are returning and seeking revenge, leading to a dangerous cycle of violence.

OSPAC Current Status and Future Outlook

As of mid-2025, OSPAC's presence in Rivers State is in flux. Some local governments have disbanded their OSPAC units due to the aforementioned controversies, while others continue to support and collaborate with them. The fluctuating support has led to concerns about a potential resurgence of criminal activities in areas where OSPAC has been disbanded.

The future of OSPAC hinges on several factors:
Regulatory Framework: There's a pressing need for a clear regulatory framework that defines the scope, responsibilities, and limitations of vigilante groups. Such guidelines would help in standardizing operations and ensuring accountability.

Training and Capacity Building: Providing OSPAC members with training on human rights, legal procedures, and conflict resolution can enhance their effectiveness and reduce incidents of abuse.

Community Trust and Collaboration: Rebuilding trust with community members is crucial. OSPAC must engage in transparent operations and open dialogues to address concerns and demonstrate their commitment to the community's well-being.

In conclusion, OSPAC has played a pivotal role in enhancing security in parts of Rivers State. However, to sustain its positive impact, addressing internal challenges and external perceptions is essential. Balancing community-driven initiatives with formal oversight can pave the way for a safer and more harmonious society.