Retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Ikioye Orutugu, has disclosed that his administration played a crucial role in ending the sit-at-home order in Anambra State. The sit-at-home order was imposed by non-state actors to press for the actualisation of Biafra. Orutugu, who served as Commissioner of Police in Anambra, made this revelation at a thanksgiving service held at St Peter’s Anglican Church, Amawbia, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra.
According to Orutugu, restoring economic activities in the state was critical due to Anambra's economy being heavily dependent on buying and selling. He emphasized that residents were not expected to stay away from markets on Mondays as the practice negatively affected their economic wellbeing and security in the state. Anambra is not an oil-producing state, and its economy is known for its commercial activities.
The former police chief stated that the campaign to restore Monday trading involved sensitisation visits to major markets in the state, including Eke Awka, Onitsha, and Nnewi markets. The state government, police public relations team, and the media supported these efforts. Orutugu expressed appreciation to Governor Chukwuma Soludo for supporting the police in this effort, saying the restoration of normal business activities was one of the major achievements of his tenure.
Orutugu reflected on his 35 years of service in the Nigeria Police Force, describing his retirement as a graceful phase of his life. He stated that he had served the nation faithfully and was proud of his accomplishments. When he came to Anambra, there were frequent reports of crime, but he ensured that these negative stories stopped.
Orutugu, who hails from Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa, revealed that he never lobbied for promotion throughout his career. He attributed his progression from Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police to AIG as evidence of God's favour. His dedication and hard work earned him recognition and respect within the police force.
The traditional ruler of Brass, Dr. Otton-Efebo Shidi, described Orutugu as a worthy ambassador of his people and a source of pride to the community. The officiating priest, Ven. Jason Onyekagbusi, praised Orutugu as a testimony of dedicated service to society and humanity. Other dignitaries, including Deputy Commissioner of Police Wan Chongs, also eulogized Orutugu for his excellent working relationship with his team and his commitment to community engagement.
Orutugu, born on August 3, 1966, holds a Bachelor's degree in Political Science from the University of Port Harcourt and a Master's degree in Public Administration from the University of Lagos. He served in various capacities across the country and is married with children and grandchildren. His retirement marks the end of an era of dedicated service to the Nigeria Police Force.
Key points
- Dr. Ikioye Orutugu ended the sit-at-home order in Anambra State by confronting the non-state actors and mobilising security agencies, government, and the media.
- The sit-at-home order was imposed by non-state actors to press for the actualisation of Biafra.
- Orutugu's administration restored Monday trading in Anambra State, which was critical to the state's economy.
