The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has paid tribute to Inspector John Jerome Abena, who died during an operation that led to the rescue of abducted schoolchildren in Oyo State.
Disu described the late officer’s death as the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation, stressing that the Nigeria Police Force would continue to honour personnel who lose their lives in the line of duty.
The IGP spoke while receiving members of the police team involved in the rescue mission, noting that the gathering was not only to celebrate the successful operation but also to recognise the sacrifices made by officers, particularly the late Abena and others who sustained injuries.
He said, “We are here to celebrate bravery, resilience and professionalism, but also to honour a hero who paid the supreme price in the course of duty. His sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
Disu noted that policing remains one of the most demanding professions, with officers facing danger daily in the course of protecting lives and property.
He assured injured personnel of the Force’s commitment to their welfare, disclosing that those wounded during the operation were receiving adequate medical care at no cost to them.
According to him, the Force would also provide sustained support to the families of fallen officers, declaring an end to the era where such families were neglected.
“We will not abandon the families of those who have paid the ultimate price. Their sacrifices will be honoured not just in words, but in action,” he added.
The police chief commended the Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs and heads of other security agencies for their collaboration, which he said was critical to the success of the operation.
He explained that the rescue mission was the result of extensive intelligence gathering, strategic planning and joint operational meetings, including late-night deliberations among security agencies.
Disu stressed that the operation underscored the importance of intelligence-driven collaboration in tackling insecurity, noting that no single agency could effectively combat crime alone.
He called for sustained cooperation, joint training and intelligence sharing among security agencies to strengthen national security.
The IGP also urged Nigerians to support security agencies with timely and credible information, emphasising that public cooperation remains vital in preventing and combating crime.
While expressing relief over the successful rescue of the abducted pupils, Disu said the loss of Inspector Abena and injuries sustained by other officers highlighted the sacrifices security personnel make daily.
He reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to personnel welfare, support for injured officers and families of fallen heroes, as well as continued collaboration with other security agencies in the fight against insecurity.