Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has described retiring Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), Ikeoye Orutugu, as a “gift to Nigeria,” as the state accorded him a rare and historic farewell in recognition of his outstanding service to the nation.
The honour was bestowed during a special session of the Anambra State Executive Council held at the Light House, Awka, where Governor Soludo and top government officials celebrated Orutugu’s remarkable career and contributions to the security of Anambra State.
Governor Soludo described the ceremony as unprecedented, noting that it was the first time a police officer retiring from active service in Anambra had been formally honoured with the full participation of the State Executive Council.
He commended the former Commissioner of Police for his exemplary leadership, professionalism, dedication and ability to work seamlessly with other security agencies in tackling insecurity across the state.
«”He is retired but not tired,” Governor Soludo declared.»
Addressing members of Orutugu’s family and the royal delegation from Bayelsa State, the governor added:
«”You all gave Nigeria the gift of Ikeoye.”»
Soludo noted that Orutugu’s collaborative approach to policing significantly strengthened the state’s security architecture and helped restore confidence in law enforcement.
Other dignitaries who paid glowing tributes to the retiring police chief included the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Chiamaka Nnake; the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Tochukwu Nweke; the State Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), Chuks Anukposi; and the Traditional Ruler of Uke, Igwe Charles Agbala.
The Attorney-General recalled that Anambra was grappling with serious security challenges when Orutugu assumed office, stressing that his close collaboration with sister security agencies helped reverse the situation.
«”He fought with us and we won the battle,” Nweke said.»
Responding, AIG Ikeoye Orutugu thanked God, Governor Soludo, the Inspector-General of Police, sister security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders and the people of Anambra State for the support they gave him throughout his tenure.
He acknowledged that the command inherited daunting security challenges but said strategic collaboration and intelligence-driven policing led to remarkable successes, improved public safety and renewed public confidence in the police.
«”Anambra is truly the Light of the Nation, and I am honoured to have served in this state,” Orutugu stated.»
The retiring police chief urged the Anambra State Government to sustain the current security momentum and encouraged officers of the Nigeria Police Force to remain disciplined, professional and committed to effective policing in the service of the nation.
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