The Nigeria Police Force and the people of Ekiti State are in mourning following the death of a distinguished retired senior officer and respected traditional ruler, Theophillus Adetunji Akeredolu. The former Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) passed away at the age of 83.
Police Force Announces the Demise
In an official statement released on Sunday, December 21, the Nigeria Police Force confirmed the sad news. The force's spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, conveyed the deep sadness of the institution, describing the late Akeredolu as a distinguished senior retired police officer and an elder statesman. The statement highlighted that Akeredolu, who held the revered traditional title of Chief Aremo of Afao, Ikere-Ekiti, died on Tuesday, December 9.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, extended condolences on behalf of all officers and men. The police praised Akeredolu's legacy, stating: "The Force mourns the loss of a dedicated professional whose legacy of service, leadership, and integrity will remain a source of inspiration to generations of police officers."
A Life of Service and Leadership
Theophillus Akeredolu was born on 25th October, 1942. His journey in public service began when he was enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force on September 1, 1969. He started as a civilian lecturer at the Police College in Ikeja, Lagos, before formally converting to a general duty police officer with the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) on August 1, 1973.
His academic pursuits were extensive and impressive:
- He attended St. John Primary School, Afao, Ikere-Ekiti.
- He studied at Teacher Training Colleges in Epinmi, Akoko and Ifako, Lagos.
- He earned a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in English and a Diploma in Education from the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
- He also obtained a Diploma in Law from the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) and a Diploma in Journalism.
His policing career saw him hold numerous strategic positions across the country, including:
- Officer-in-Charge of Investigation, CID, Kwara State Command.
- Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command.
- Commandant, Detective College, Enugu.
- Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 6, Calabar.
- Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of ‘B’ Department (Operations), Force Headquarters, Abuja.
He was promoted to the esteemed rank of Deputy Inspector-General of Police on January 1, 2001, overseeing the ‘B’ Department (Operations) at Force Headquarters until his retirement on March 14, 2002.
International Training and Honours
Akeredolu's professional development included elite training both locally and abroad. He attended courses at the Metropolitan Police College in Hendon, London, the Royal Institute of Public Administration in London, and the Staff College in Jos. He also completed the Senior Command Course in Durham, Great Britain, and a programme at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, Jos.
In recognition of his meritorious service to the nation, he was honoured with the national award of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON). Beyond his police career, he remained deeply involved in community and religious life, holding prominent titles within the African Church community in both Abuja and Ekiti State.
The passing of Theophillus Akeredolu marks the end of an era for the Nigeria Police Force and the traditional institution in Ekiti State. He is remembered as a pillar of service, a model of integrity, and a beloved leader whose impact will be felt for years to come.
