Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has honoured five outgoing security commanders with brand new SUVs and other gifts, praising their service and sacrifice in keeping the state safe. The ceremony took place on Wednesday, 19 August, at the Michael Okpara Auditorium in Umuahia.
Five Commanders Recognised for Meritorious Service
The honorees were AIG Danladi Isa, immediate past Commissioner of Police for Abia State; Brigadier General H M Bello, outgone Commander of 14 Brigade, Ohafia; Mr Ibrahim Sarki, immediate past State Director of the State Security Service (SSS); Mr Akintola Aderemi, State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC); and Mr Chigbu Odoemelam, outgone Commandant of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Governor Otti, describing himself as the state's Chief Security Officer, spoke directly about the difficulties of security work. He said, "Sometimes, some people may not understand, particularly if you are not in the security cycle. It's one of the most difficult jobs. A lot of you don't sleep, so that the rest of us can sleep."
Governor Outlines Security Philosophy
The Governor thanked the officers for their sacrifices, hard work, cooperation, and discipline, noting that these virtues had produced the current level of peace and security in the state. "So, I relied on all of you, and because we take it very seriously, and because we also have God on our side, the results have been very impressive," he stated.
Governor Otti explained that his government reviews security through monthly State Security Council meetings, where reports are assessed, strategies aligned, and new deployments planned. He reiterated a key principle of his administration: non-interference in lawful operations. "My administration does not interfere with lawful police and security operations, insisting that government officials must not use their influence to secure the release of suspected criminals," he said. He added that his administration believes in the rule of law, and those who operate within the law should not be afraid.
Officials Praise Outgoing Commanders
In a welcome address, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Emmanuel Meribole, applauded the professionalism and teamwork of the outgoing officers, saying it accounted for the peaceful and secured environment in Abia. The service chiefs expressed their appreciation. Brigadier General Bello and AIG Danladi Isa thanked the Governor for the honour and support they received while serving.
Messrs Sarki, Aderemi, and Odoemelam noted that Governor Otti demonstrated that hard work and dedication are rewarded. They said the Governor provided all the logistics support needed for their duties and never interfered with their official duties. "Abia is blessed with a compassionate and kind hearted leader as Governor," they submitted, promising to remain good ambassadors of the state.
Recognition Underscores Security Model
The event was more than a farewell; it was a public affirmation of a working model. Governor Otti's approach includes institutionalising monthly security reviews, backing agencies with logistics, and refusing to politicise law enforcement. By honouring those who secured Abia, the Governor underscored that peace is planned, funded, protected, and appreciated.
