It was a moment of celebration and reflection as the Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), Ikioye Orutugu, marked a triple milestone with his birthday, promotion, retirement from active service, and farewell ceremony.
The event News Echo reports, attracted top government officials, security chiefs, traditional rulers, and well-wishers who paid glowing tributes to his outstanding career and contributions to policing.
Speaking at the occasion, The Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 13, AIG Miller Dantawaye, extolled AIG Orutugu as a gallant officer who have tutored and trained hundreds of police men in areas of strategic crime combats, discipline and dedication to service. While noting that his retirement will be greatly missed by the Nigerian police.
In his remarks, the Area Commander of Aguata, ACP Uchechi Dike, described AIG Orutugu as a proactive leader who consistently stayed ahead of security challenges rather than reacting to them.
According to him, the AIG maintained a close relationship with local communities and emphasized that effective policing is a collective responsibility involving both security personnel and the public.
“There is nothing negative associated with your service. As you leave us, may God Almighty continue to bless, guide and reward you. May your new phase of service be even more fulfilling than the one we have witnessed,” he said.
In his goodwill message, High Chief D. Karibo Idumangi, Head Chief of the Idumangi Chieftaincy House, Okpoama Kingdom, commended AIG Orutugu for making remarkable strides in improving security across Anambra State.
He noted that the achievements recorded during the AIG’s tenure were made possible through the cooperation of the people of Anambra State and the collaboration of various stakeholders.
“Today, we celebrate a distinguished officer and brother who has left an indelible mark in policing. We are proud of your accomplishments and your commitment to peace and security,”
The Head of Service of Anambra State, Mrs. Ngozi Anuli Iwouno, Esq., mni, congratulated AIG Orutugu on his well-deserved promotion, describing him as an exceptional officer whose dedication significantly enhanced security in the state.
She also commended the ongoing reforms in the Nigeria Police Force, noting that the institution now places greater emphasis on academic development while remaining effective in tackling crime. She thanked the AIG for his invaluable service to Anambra State.
Also speaking, the State Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Steve Ojelade, PhD, mni, described AIG Orutugu as a humble, dependable and collaborative leader whose style of leadership strengthened inter-agency cooperation.
He stated that working with the AIG made security operations more effective and that the synergy among security agencies during his tenure greatly contributed to improved peace and security across Anambra State.
Majority leader, Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon Ikenna Ofodeme representing Ekwusigo Constituency also expressed appreciation to the people of Anambra State for their unwavering support and collaboration with the Police Command.
He noted that the strong partnership between residents and Anambra security agency Agunechemba played a vital role in enhancing security throughout AIG Orutugu’s administration.
In his response, the newly promoted AIG Ikioye Orutugu expressed profound gratitude to God for a successful policing career and thanked officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force for their unwavering support throughout his years of service.
He said his promotion marked not the end of his journey but the beginning of greater opportunities for continued national service and stronger partnerships in advancing security.
The AIG urged younger police officers to remain disciplined, committed and passionate in the discharge of their duties, stressing that hard work, integrity and dedication would always attract recognition and reward.
He also expressed heartfelt appreciation to the people of Anambra State for their hospitality, cooperation and support, as well as the cordial working relationship among all security agencies, which, he noted, contributed significantly to the successful fight against crime during his tenure.
Meanwhile special highlights of the event were entertainment from Asaba trumpeters, Nigeria police band, and dance celebrity tick tokers.
