Soludo Hails Retiring AIG Orutugu as Nigeria’s Security Hero, Says He Is A Gift To The Nation

Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has showered glowing tributes on retiring Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, describing him as “a gift to Nigeria” whose exemplary leadership helped restore security and stability in the state.

Governor Soludo made the remarks during a special valedictory session of the Anambra State Executive Council at the Lighthouse in Awka, where the state formally honoured the senior police officer for his outstanding service.

Describing the occasion as unprecedented, the governor said it was the first time a retiring security chief had been accorded such recognition by the full State Executive Council, underscoring Orutugu’s exceptional contributions to peace and public safety.

“He is retired but not tired,” Soludo declared, praising the police chief’s professionalism, discipline, and ability to work seamlessly with other security agencies in tackling insecurity.

Addressing Orutugu’s family and members of his royal delegation from Bayelsa State, the governor said, “You all gave Nigeria the gift of Ikioye.”

Soludo credited the retiring officer with playing a pivotal role in strengthening Anambra’s security architecture through effective collaboration with sister security agencies and community stakeholders.

Several top government officials and security chiefs also paid tribute to Orutugu during the ceremony.

Among them were 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, Chuks Anukposi; and the Traditional Ruler of Uke, Igwe Charles Agbala.

The Attorney-General recalled that Orutugu assumed office at a time Anambra faced serious security challenges but said coordinated efforts by security agencies significantly improved the situation.

“He fought with us and we won the battle,” Nweke said.

Responding, the retiring AIG expressed gratitude to God, Governor Soludo, the Inspector-General of Police, fellow security agencies, traditional rulers, and the people of Anambra for their support throughout his tenure.

He said the command confronted enormous security challenges when he took office but achieved remarkable successes through teamwork, resulting in improved public safety and increased confidence in law enforcement.

“Anambra is truly the Light of the Nation, and I am honoured to have served in this state,” Orutugu said.

He urged the state government to sustain the gains recorded in the security sector while encouraging police officers to remain professional, disciplined, and committed to effective policing in the service of the nation.