Phil Okose, Onitsha and Nkechi David Iwuchukwu
The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, AIG Ikioye Orutugu, has formally bowed out of the Nigeria Police Force after a distinguished career marked by strengthened police-community relations, enhanced inter-agency collaboration and sustained efforts to combat crime in the state.
The Pull-Out Parade, held at the Anambra State Police Command Headquarters, Awka, formed part of activities organised to celebrate the recently promoted Assistant Inspector-General of Police, who also marked his birthday on Monday, August 3, 2026.
The ceremonies culminated in a State Executive Council send-forth organised by the Anambra State Government on Tuesday, August 4, in recognition of Orutugu’s contributions to security, peace and public safety during his tenure as Commissioner of Police in the state.
At the send-forth ceremony, Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, and other senior government officials described AIG Orutugu as an exceptional police officer whose tenure witnessed significant strides in security administration and policing in Anambra.
The governor and other speakers particularly commended his collaborative approach to policing, strategic engagement with stakeholders and commitment to building public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.
According to the state government, Orutugu’s tenure was characterised by strengthened police-community relations, improved cooperation among security agencies and strategic partnerships with traditional, religious and community institutions in the fight against crime and criminality.
The government also acknowledged his contributions to the security architecture of the state and his efforts towards sustaining an environment conducive to economic activities and peaceful coexistence.
The birthday celebration on August 3 provided an opportunity for family members, government officials, heads of sister security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other stakeholders to celebrate the police officer and acknowledge what they described as his years of dedicated service to the nation.
The occasion featured prayers and goodwill messages, with speakers wishing the AIG good health, peace and fulfilment as he begins another phase of his life and career.
The Pull-Out Parade at the Command Headquarters, Awka, was attended by officers and men of the Anambra Police Command, retired senior police officers, family members, traditional rulers, government officials, friends and other dignitaries.
The colourful ceremony followed the long-standing traditions of the Nigeria Police Force and formally marked the conclusion of AIG Orutugu’s active service.
The parade featured the inspection of officers, ceremonial procession and presentation of policing honours, while colleagues and stakeholders paid glowing tributes to the retiring senior police officer.
They described him as a professional and disciplined officer whose leadership was anchored on operational effectiveness, professionalism, stakeholder engagement and people-oriented policing.
The Anambra State Police Command, in a statement by its Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, expressed appreciation to the government and people of the state, sister security agencies, traditional institutions, religious leaders, community leaders and other stakeholders for their support throughout Orutugu’s tenure.
The Command said the support received from stakeholders contributed significantly to the security efforts recorded during the period.
It congratulated AIG Orutugu on his birthday and wished him excellent health, a fulfilling retirement and continued success in his future endeavours.
The Command also reassured residents of its determination to sustain the security gains recorded under his leadership and remain committed to the protection of lives and property across the state.
