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 formally honoured him for his outstanding service to the nation.
The tribute was paid during a special session of the Anambra State Executive Council held at the Light House, Awka, in recognition of Orutugu’s meritorious career and contributions to security in the state.
Governor Soludo described the event as historic, noting that it was the first time a police officer retiring from active service in Anambra had been accorded such an honour with the full participation of the State Executive Council.
Commending the former Commissioner of Police, Soludo praised Orutugu’s dedication, professionalism and collaborative leadership, saying his tenure significantly strengthened Anambra’s security architecture.
“He is retired but not tired,” the governor said.
Addressing members of Orutugu’s family and the royal delegation from Bayelsa State, Soludo added:
“You all gave Nigeria the gift of Ikeoye.”
The governor lauded the retiring police chief for fostering strong partnerships with other security agencies, a development he said contributed immensely to the restoration of peace and public safety across the state.
Several dignitaries also paid glowing tributes to the retiring AIG, including 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.
Speaking at the event, Attorney-General Tochukwu Nweke recalled the security challenges confronting Anambra when Orutugu assumed office, noting that coordinated efforts among security agencies turned the tide.
“He fought with us and we won the battle,” Nweke stated.
In his response, AIG Ikeoye Orutugu expressed gratitude to God, Governor Soludo, the Inspector-General of Police, sister security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders and the people of Anambra State for their unwavering support throughout his service.
He noted that although the command inherited serious security challenges at the beginning of his tenure, sustained collaboration among stakeholders led to remarkable improvements in 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 said.
The retiring police chief urged the Anambra State Government to sustain and build on the current security gains while encouraging police officers to remain committed to professionalism, integrity and effective community policing.
SOLUDO: Orutugu Is a Gift to Nigeria as Anambra Honours Retiring AIG
