Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has commended outgoing security commanders in the state for their sacrifices and contributions to maintaining peace and security during their tenure.
Otti gave the commendation on Wednesday at a send-off ceremony held at the Michael Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia, in honour of security chiefs recently transferred from the state.
The governor praised the officers for their discipline, dedication and cooperation with his administration, noting that security personnel often work under difficult conditions to protect lives and property.
“A lot of you don’t sleep, so that the rest of us can sleep,” Otti said.
He said the state government deliberately maintained a professional relationship with security agencies and avoided interference in their operations.
According to him, his administration would not interfere with lawful security procedures by asking officers to release suspects, stressing that professionalism and adherence to the law remained essential.
The governor assured the outgoing commanders that their relationship with Abia would continue despite their new postings, adding that additional parting gifts had been prepared for them.
Earlier, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Emmanuel Meribeole, commended the officers for their service and collaboration with the state government, saying their contributions had helped strengthen Abia’s security architecture.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Navy Commander MacDonald Ubah (rtd.), said the send-off had become part of the Otti administration’s tradition of recognising security personnel who had served the state.
The outgoing commanders also expressed appreciation to Governor Otti for his support and logistics, which they said enabled them to effectively discharge their responsibilities.
Those honoured included the immediate past Brigade Commander, 14 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Ohafia, Brigadier General Hassan Muhammed Bello; immediate past Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, now Assistant Inspector General of Police, AIG Danladi Isah; immediate past State Director of the Department of State Services, Ibrahim Sariki; immediate past NSCDC State Commandant, Akinsola Aderemi; and immediate past NDLEA Commander, Chigbu Odoemelam Chile.
The commanders described Abia as one of the most secure states in the country and credited the governor’s support for their achievements.
The ceremony was attended by government officials, security personnel and other stakeholders.
