Otti Celebrates Outgoing Security Chiefs for Their Service in Abia

On Wednesday, 19 August, at the Michael Okpara Auditorium in Umuahia, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State took a moment away from governance to do something special for the people of Abia: he honoured those who helped keep the state safe.

In a moving farewell ceremony, the state government recognized five outgoing service commanders who served Abia with dedication and are now moving on to new roles at the national level.

The honorees were: AIG Danladi Isa, the former Commissioner of Police in Abia State; Brigadier General H M Bello, the outgoing Commander of the 14 Brigade, Ohafia; Mr Ibrahim Sarki, former State Director of SSS; Mr Akintola Aderemi, State Commandant of NSCDC; and Mr Chigbu Odoemelam, the former Commandant of NDLEA.

Each officer received a brand new SUV and other gifts approved by the Governor.

Governor Otti, who sees himself as the Chief Security Officer of the state, spoke about the sacrifices these men made. "Sometimes, some people may not understand, particularly if you are not in the security cycle. It’s one of the most difficult jobs. A lot of you don’t sleep, so that the rest of us can sleep," he said.

He expressed his gratitude for their hard work, cooperation, and discipline, which helped create the peace and security in Abia. "So, I relied on all of you, and because we take it very seriously, and because we also have God on our side, the results have been very impressive," he added.

The event highlighted not just the gifts but also the approach the administration takes towards security.

Governor Otti shared that his government holds monthly State Security Council meetings to review security, discuss reports, align strategies, and plan new deployments.

He also emphasized a key principle in his dealings with security agencies: no interference in lawful operations.

"My 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," he stated.

He mentioned that those who work within the law should feel safe and secure.

In his welcome speech, Secretary to the State Government, Dr Emmanuel Meribole, praised the professionalism and teamwork of the outgoing officers. He said this greatly contributed to the peaceful environment in every part of Abia today.

The service chiefs were grateful for the honour.

Brigadier General Bello and AIG Danladi Isa thanked the Governor for the recognition and the support they received during their time.

Messrs Sarki, Aderemi, and Odoemelam remarked that Governor Otti showed that hard work and dedication are rewarded. They said the Governor provided all the necessary logistics for their duties and never interfered with their work.

"Abia is blessed with a compassionate and kind-hearted leader as Governor," they said, promising to be good Ambassadors of the state.

This event was more than just a farewell. It was a public recognition of a successful model: a civilian leader who respects institutions, supports them, and allows them to function, then shows appreciation.

By holding monthly security reviews, providing agencies with logistics support, and keeping politics out of law enforcement, Governor Otti has shown he understands what is needed to build a state that others can look up to.

In honouring those who secured Abia, Governor Otti reminded everyone that peace does not happen by chance. It is planned, funded, protected, and appreciated.