By Nwabueze Okonkwo
ONITSHA — Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has described the retiring Commissioner of Police, AIG Ikioye Orutugu, as a gift to Nigeria, while commending his contributions to improving security in the state.
Soludo made the remarks during a special session of the State Executive Council held in honour of the outgoing police chief at the Light House, Awka, on Wednesday.
The governor described the event as a historic milestone, noting that it was the first time an officer would retire from active service in Anambra with a formal state government ceremony.
“This is the first time an officer is retiring in active service from Anambra State. To say goodbye formally, with the full government paraphernalia in full session, is quite emotional and almost impossible to believe that Orutugu is leaving us,” Soludo said.
The governor said the 60-year-old officer, an indigene of Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, was retiring after a distinguished career and only due to the mandatory retirement age.
“He is retired but not tired. You all gave Nigeria the gift of Ikioye. We want to congratulate you on your elevation; you more than deserved it,” Soludo said.
He praised Orutugu for his teamwork and collaboration with other security agencies, saying the collective efforts of the security architecture contributed to the achievements recorded in the state.
The Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Chiamaka Nnake, described the occasion as an important opportunity to recognise the contributions of the outgoing police chief, wishing him success in retirement.
The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Tochukwu Nweke, recalled that Orutugu assumed office at a time the state faced serious security challenges, adding that collaboration among stakeholders helped improve the security situation.
“When he assumed office, the state was wrapped in insecurity, but through collaborative efforts, Anambra is now one of the safest states in the country. He fought with us and we won the battle,” Nweke said.
The State Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Chuks Anukposi, described Orutugu as a committed security partner, praising his passion, organisational ability and contribution to joint security operations.
Also speaking on behalf of traditional rulers in the state, the traditional ruler of Uke, Igwe Charles Agbala, thanked God for the retired officer’s successful service, noting that he supported the state’s security policies during his tenure.
Responding, AIG Orutugu expressed appreciation to God, Governor Soludo, the state government, security agencies, community leaders, journalists and residents of Anambra for their support throughout his service.
“Anambra is truly the Light of the Nation, and I am honoured to have served in this state,” he said.
The retired police chief recalled that the command faced significant security challenges when he assumed office, but added that joint efforts with stakeholders led to improved public safety and greater confidence in the police.
He urged the state government to sustain and improve the existing security support, while charging police officers to maintain professionalism and uphold high standards.
During his pulling-out parade at the Anambra State Police Command headquarters, Orutugu specifically appreciated journalists for their support, describing the media as important partners in the fight against crime.
He said the cooperation and professionalism of journalists helped communicate the activities and achievements of the command to the public.
Orutugu disclosed that he was recently honoured with the Crime Fighter and Most Professional Police Officer of the Year 2026 Award by the National Association of Women, as well as another award from the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abuja Council.
He said the recognitions showed that the efforts of the command were being noticed, adding that the media played a significant role in projecting its activities.
Reflecting on his career, the outgoing police chief advised officers to remain professional and avoid undue influence, stressing that integrity remained the greatest asset of any police officer.
“The only thing you owe yourself as a police officer is professionalism. You do not owe any influential person anything. Just be professional,” he said.
Orutugu said he joined the Nigeria Police Force out of passion for service rather than financial gain, adding that a good reputation remained more valuable than material wealth.
He thanked the people and government of Anambra State, security stakeholders and members of the police command for their support, while wishing the state continued peace and security.
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