The Nigeria Police Force has announced the death of retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) Parry Benjamin Osemwegie Osayande, who passed away in Benin City on 28 September, a day before his 89th birthday.

In a statement on Thursday, Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said Osayande was “a towering figure in Nigerian policing” whose career left an indelible mark.

Osayande, who received several national honours, including the Companion of the Federal Republic (CFR) and Officer of the Federal Republic (OFR), rose through the ranks to serve as Commissioner of Police in multiple states and later as Deputy Inspector-General.

He served as DIG from 2008 to 2013 and also chaired the Police Service Commission (PSC), where he pushed for reforms in officer welfare, training, and accountability.

Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, extended condolences to Osayande’s family, the PSC, and his associates, saying his professionalism and commitment remained a beacon for the Nigeria Police Force.

“The Nigeria Police Force prays for the peaceful repose of his soul and strength for his family to bear this irreparable loss. The family will announce funeral and memorial arrangements in due course,” the statement read.

Born in Benin City on 29 September 1936, Osayande joined the Force in the post-independence years, serving during a period of significant political and security upheaval.

Beyond his administrative roles, he also chaired presidential committees on police reform, contributing ideas still referenced in ongoing debates on security sector governance.