Governor Dr Alex Otti has commended five outgoing security commanders for their dedicated service, sacrifices, cooperation and strong team spirit during their tenure in Abia State.
The service commanders include; the immediate past Commissioner of Police Danladi Isa who was recently promoted to Assistant Inspector General, the outgone Brigade Commander 14 Brigade Ohafia, Brigadier General H.M Bello.
Others are the immediate past State Director DSS, Mr Ibrahim Saraki, State Commandant National Security and Civil Defense Corps, (NSCDC), Mr Akintola Aderemi and the outgone Commandant National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mr Chigbu Odoemelam.
Speaking on Wednesday, during a send forth ceremony organized for the service chiefs by the state government at the Michael Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia,
Governor Otti commended them for their dedication, professionalism and sacrifices.
The governor acknowledged that their commitment and collaboration with the State Government played a significant role in strengthening the security architecture of Abia.
He described security work as one of the most difficult responsibilities, noting that security personnel often sacrifice their sleep and safety so residents can live peacefully.
According to Governor Otti, the state’s security strategy is regularly reviewed through monthly State Security Council meetings, where reports are assessed, strategies aligned and new deployments planned.
The Governor who described himself as the state’s Chief Security Officer, acknowledged his dependence on the security agencies to execute their duties effectively.
He also stressed that his 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.
Governor Otti said his administration believes in the rule of law, nothing that those who operate within the ambit of the law and do the right thing should not be afraid.
The governor also expressed appreciation to the outgoing commanders for their service to Abia and encouraged them to maintain their relationship with the state after their departure.
Governor Otti further disclosed that he has approved additional gifts for the outgoing service commanders and encouraged those retiring from service to continue to contribute to the development of the state.
Earlier in his address, the SSG, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, thanked the outgoing Service Commanders for their professionalism and applauded their teamwork, which he said, contributed greatly to the peaceful and secure environment currently enjoyed across the state.
Also, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Navy Commander MacDonald Ubah, recalled the Governor’s befitting send-off for the former Brigade Commander, noting that appreciating security commanders has become a tradition.
He thanked the Governor for providing the necessary support and logistics, and urged the current commanders to emulate their predecessors, adding that further appreciation had been provided for the outgoing commanders.
In their goodwill messages, the outgoing Commander, 14 Brigade Ohafia, Brigadier General H.M. Bello, and the immediate past Commissioner of Police, Abia State, now AIG Danladi Isa, thanked Governor Otti for the honour and the support extended to them throughout their service in the state.
Also speaking, the immediate past State Director of the SSS, Mr. Ibrahim Sarki; State Commandant, NSCDC, Akinsola Aderemi; and State Commandant, NDLEA, Mr. Chigbu Odoemelam, commended Governor Otti for rewarding hard work and dedication.
They appreciated the governor for providing the necessary logistics and support, describing him as a compassionate and supportive leader who never interfered with their official duties and pledged to remain good ambassadors of Abia State.
