Retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Ikioye Orutugu, has disclosed that his administration played a crucial role in restoring Monday trading in Anambra State. The sit-at-home order, imposed by non-state actors, was aimed at pressuring the government to actualize Biafra. Orutugu, who served as Commissioner of Police in Anambra, made this revelation at a thanksgiving service held at St Peter’s Anglican Church in Amawbia, Awka South Local Government Area.
According to Orutugu, Anambra's economy heavily relies on buying and selling, making it essential to restore economic activities. He noted that the sit-at-home order negatively affected the residents' economic wellbeing and security in the state. The former police chief emphasized that citizens need to engage in economic activities to sustain themselves, stating that "Anambra is not an oil-producing state; what we know Anambra for is its buying and selling."
Orutugu explained that the campaign to restore Monday trading involved sensitization visits to major markets in the state, including Eke Awka, Onitsha, and Nnewi markets. The initiative was supported by the state government, police public relations team, and the media. He expressed gratitude to Governor Chukwuma Soludo for supporting the police in their efforts to restore normal business activities.
The restoration of Monday trading was one of the major achievements of Orutugu's tenure as Commissioner of Police in Anambra. Reflecting on his 35-year career in the Nigeria Police Force, Orutugu described his retirement as a peaceful phase of his life, having served the nation faithfully. He attributed his progression from Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police to AIG to God's favor.
During his tenure as Commissioner of Police, Orutugu witnessed a significant reduction in crime rates in Anambra. He recalled that upon assuming office, there were frequent reports of crime, but he worked to change the narrative. The traditional ruler of Brass, Dr. Otton-Efebo Shidi, praised Orutugu as a worthy ambassador of his people and a source of pride to the community.
The officiating priest, Ven. Jason Onyekagbusi, described Orutugu as a testament to dedicated service to society and humanity. Deputy Commissioner of Police, Wan Chongs, also commended Orutugu, describing him as one of the best operational officers produced by the Nigeria Police Force. Orutugu was born on August 3, 1966, and holds a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and a Master's degree in Public Administration.
Orutugu had served in various capacities across the country, including Assistant Commissioner of Police, Homicide Section, Force Criminal Investigation Department, Abuja, and Commander, Federal Highway Patrol Zone 5. He is married with children and grandchildren.
Key points
- Orutugu ended the sit-at-home order in Anambra by mobilizing security agencies, government, and media against the directive.
- The sit-at-home order was imposed by non-state actors to press for the actualization of Biafra.
- Orutugu's administration restored Monday trading in Anambra, significantly boosting the state's economy.
