Anambra Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo and other stakeholders have attributed the operational successes recorded in the fight against crime in the State recently to the tenure of the former Commissioner of Police and later retired Assistant Inspector-general of Police (AIG), Ikioye Orutugu.

In particular, the State Government acknowledged the Command under Orutugu for its collaborative approach to policing, strategic partnership with stakeholders, and unwavering commitment to combating crime and strengthening public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.

Speaking during the send forth ceremony, Governor Chukwuma Soludo further described Orutigu as a gift to Nigeria.

The governor, alongside other senior government functionaries described AIG Orutugu as “an exceptional police officer whose tenure in Anambra State was marked by strengthened police-community relations, enhanced inter-agency collaboration, strategic security partnerships, and remarkable operational successes in the fight against crime and criminality.”

This came in the wake of ceremonies including the State Executive Council Send-forth ceremony organized by the Anambra State Government, birthday, promotion and formal retirement from the Nigeria Police Force through a ceremonial Pull-Out Parade.

The ceremonies commenced last Monday, 3rd August 2026 and ended yesterday, Wednesday. As part of the events, the government honoured AIG Orutugu at a State Executive Council Send-forth ceremony in recognition of his outstanding contributions to security, peace, and public safety in Anambra.

At the State Police Command Headquarters, officers and men as well as family members, retired senior police officers, traditional rulers, government officials, friends, and other distinguished guests gathered to celebrate the remarkable career and selfless service of the senior police officer.

The ceremonial Pull-Out Parade symbolised the formal conclusion of AIG Orutugu’s distinguished career after decades of dedicated service to the nation.

The ceremony featured the inspection of the parade, ceremonial procession, and conferment of policing honours, as well as goodwill messages from colleagues and stakeholders who commended his professionalism, exemplary leadership, operational excellence, and people-oriented policing philosophy.

In a farewell message, the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, Ibrahim Ezekiel said “your journey in the Nigeria Police Force has been characterized by commitment, courage, discipline, professionalism and sacrifice.

Through the years, you have served in different capacities and faced numerous challenges, yet you remained steadfast in the discharge of duties.

“Under your leadership, the Command made significant efforts towards combating crimes, strengthening community relations, improving operational effectiveness and enhancing collaboration with sister agencies and stakeholders.”

According to him, Orutugu’s approach to policing has demonstrated that “effective security is not achieved by the police alone.” Going further, he stressed: “You have been a mentor to many, a colleague to several and a leader to all who served under your command Your professional conduct and dedication to duty have provided valuable lessons for younger officers,” Ezekiel added.

Speaking on behalf of the Commanders of 54 Police Mobile Force, 29 Signals among others, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Kaila Nasiru regretted that “working with AIG is an honour and will be missed.” Kaila asked God to continue to see the retiree through his post-retirement endeavours.

In her goodwill message, Vice Chairperson of Association of Heads of Federal Establishments in Anambra State and State Coordinator of Health Environmental Council of Nigeria, Chioma Irono who represented the Chairman Anambra hailed the AIG for exhibiting virtues of intelligence, kindness, humility, dedication and commitment in the performance of his duties which have earned him a plethora of awards.

She said the AIG “inspired everyone around with his expertise, wisdom and positive impact, describing him as a helpful co-worker and great friend,” adding “he is leaving behind a legacy.”

In his remarks, a spokesman for the Ananyababo (king) of Okpoma, Brass, Bayelsa State, High Chief Karibo Idumangi of Okpoma kingdom rep Ananyababo (King)High Chief Karibo hailed the retired AIG as a great Ambassador to the community and respected traditional title holders in the community.

He observed that the feeling expressed by governor Soludo “really showed he is missing the AIG” while he dedicated the honour on AIG on those who served under him, without whose support the accolades would not be possible.