By SCM Staff Writer I Wednesday, October 15, 2025
AWKA, Anambra – A Lagos-based media outfit, Freshfacts magazine, on Tuesday conferred the African Icon Award on the Anambra State Police Commissioner, CP Ikioye Orutugu, in recognition of his outstanding performance in policing the state.
Presenting the award to the Police Commissioner at the State Police Headquarters in Amawbia, Awka South Local Government Area, the publisher of the magazine, Dr. Oyomah Iyke Monday, described Orutugu as an icon of hope and justice within the Nigeria Police.
According to Dr. Oyomah, the State Commissioner of Police has demonstrated tremendous capacity in policing and reforming police operations in Anambra State.
Oyomah, who is also the National Coordinator of Eye on Security, stated that as a journalist, he has closely followed the trends in Anambra State, particularly during the violent periods marked by kidnapping, cult-related wars, and other crimes. He credited Orutugu for calming the situation significantly.
He noted that since the Commissioner assumed office, the state has become relatively calm and peaceful, with a noticeable reduction in violent crimes and other related offenses.
“With the arrival of CP Ikioye Orutugu, many criminals and those with criminal intent have fled the state. The incidences of killing, kidnapping, and all forms of violent crimes have been greatly reduced,” he said.
Reflecting on Orutugu’s numerous achievements, Dr. Oyomah emphasized, “We considered it appropriate that his remarkable achievements should be recognized.”
He also highlighted that Anambra State is currently approaching its governorship election without any reports of political thuggery, electoral violence, or political killings. This, he explained, is not due to the absence of people with such intentions but rather because of the CP’s proactive and pragmatic approach to crime fighting.
Dr. Oyomah stated that the Commissioner’s proactive initiatives have significantly eased tensions related to criminal activities in the state.
“The Commissioner has declared that enough is enough; we cannot tolerate criminal activities in the state,” he affirmed.
Furthermore, he praised the Police Commissioner for reforming the police force and policing in Anambra State. He noted that previously, visitors to Anambra were apprehensive of both criminals and the police. However, today, the Anambra State Police are well-refined and well-behaved.
“There is a high level of police reformation in operations, which has greatly improved peaceful coexistence,” he added.
Dr. Oyomah also acknowledged that the Commissioner has rebranded police operations in the state and said that “We must celebrate him for the positive reforms he has brought about.”
He commended Orutugu’s relationship with the people of Anambra State, describing it as very cordial.
“The Commissioner has integrated himself with the people of the state. Looking at his level of integration, one would think he is an indigene of Anambra,” he said.
He noted that Orutugu has involved the people of the state in policing efforts.
Shortly after receiving the award, Commissioner Orutugu urged everyone to carry out his duties with utmost integrity and excellence.
“Whatever you do, do it well, especially if it concerns the development of society, because your efforts will eventually be rewarded.
“Just today alone, I have received three awards from different groups. Sometimes, I ask myself what I did to deserve these honors, but when I reflect on the journey I have survived as a police officer, I realize I truly deserve them. I have served meritoriously in different capacities within the police force and have distinguished myself. I have been through challenging operations whether on water or in the bushes and have emerged without stain, displaying both decency and strong character. Looking at the number of awards coming to me at this time, I give God all the glory and am very grateful to Him,” Orutugu added.
He encouraged young people to pursue their endeavors with excellence, even if immediate rewards are not evident.
“The rewards of good deeds will surely come, though sometimes at a distance and not immediately,” he said.
He recalled that when he was in Lagos, the civil society groups often requested his deployment during protests because he could manage both the agitators and the police effectively.
“At that time, I accepted any assignment without any anticipation of anything and today, those efforts are being recognized,” he stated.
Commissioner Orutugu expressed his gratitude to God for being alive to witness people celebrating him with honors and awards.
The group also honoured the state police command spokesman SP Ikenga Tochukwu with an Award of outstanding Police public relations officer (PPRO) in the country.
Oyomah described Ikenga as police spokesman with distinction, carrying all the stakeholders in managing the police image in the state.
According to him,the Anambra State police spokesman has distinguished himself as one of the greatest spokesmen in the Nigerian police that needs celebration.
