The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has presented cheques of the sum of N37,280,296.36 to families of 33 deceased officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.



The state commissioner of police, CP Baba Azare, who presented the cheques on behalf of Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, during a news briefing on Tuesday at the command’s Headquarters, Uyo, said the cheques were issued under the IGP Family Welfare and Group Life Assurance Schemes.


He expressed gratitude to the IGP for the initiative, adding that the money would provide significant support to the families.


Azare, who acknowledged the IGP’s concern for the welfare of police personnel, assured that the police would continue its welfare schemes for officers.


“The police is relentless in its welfare scheme for its personnel, and will not back down on the initiative, especially for all deceased officers who sacrificed their lives fighting for the peace and progress of the country,” the commissioner said.


He urged the beneficiaries to utilise the funds wisely, emphasising that the sacrifices of the deceased officers would never be forgotten.


In a related development, the commissioner has pledged the command’s support for the retired police officers in the state.


Azare made the pledge while playing host to the National Association of the Retired Police Officers of Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State Chapter, at the command’s headquarters in Ikot Akpan Abia, on Tuesday.


He expressed gratitude to the association for its collaborative approach in addressing issues affecting retired police officers in the state.


The commissioner praised the group for choosing dialogue over confrontation and protests, noting that such an approach would lead to more lasting solutions.


He promised that the Akwa Ibom Police Command would support the association’s requests, including facilitating the acquisition of land for a permanent meeting hall.


Earlier, the State Chairman of the association, Anselem Eyo, expressed delight for the command’s effort in combating crimes in the state and urged the command to collaborate with the association in sharing experience that will aid security in the state.