By Richard Thomas
The Oyo State Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Abimbola, has conferred the title of Oyo State Police Ambassador on Asiwaju (Dr) Mogaji Nurudeen Akinade in recognition of his contributions to promoting the activities and image of the Nigeria Police Force in the state.
The decoration took place on Friday during a conference and mess gathering hosted by the Commissioner at the Police Officers’ Mess, Eleyele, Ibadan.
Speaking at the occasion, CP Abimbola said the conferment was informed by what he described as the immense contributions of Mogaji Akinade to the activities of the Police and his efforts to foster a positive relationship between the Force and members of the public.
The Commissioner described the awardee as a partner in progress, stressing that the recognition was intended not only to appreciate his efforts but also to encourage him and others who have demonstrated commitment to supporting the Police.
According to him, individuals who contribute positively to security and promote constructive relationships between the Police and the community deserve to be encouraged and recognised.
“I see Asiwaju Mogaji Akinade as a partner in progress with the Police. We will continue to do our best to honour those who have chosen to support the Police,” CP Abimbola said.
Responding, Asiwaju (Dr) Mogaji Nurudeen Akinade expressed appreciation to the Commissioner for the honour, describing the recognition as a source of encouragement to do more in supporting the Police and promoting peaceful coexistence.
Nurudeen recalled his intervention during the EndSARS protests, saying he had worked with other stakeholders to prevent attacks on police personnel and de-escalate tensions at the height of the crisis.
He said he had led efforts to engage relevant individuals and authorities, including visits to the Olubadan’s Palace, and others in a bid to discourage violence and protect lives and property.
“Honestly, I was just doing what I thought was right. I recall during the EndSARS issue how I led some people to talk to some people to stop killing the Police. We went as far as the Olubadan’s Palace and other places to help mitigate the issue,” he said.
The new Oyo State Police Ambassador added that despite warnings from some individuals that he could be attacked for intervening, he remained committed to the cause until the situation eventually subsided.
He assured CP Abimbola that the honour would further strengthen his resolve to collaborate with the Police and other stakeholders in promoting the image of the Force and supporting initiatives aimed at maintaining peace and security in Oyo State.
The event brought together senior police officers, members of the media, community stakeholders, family of the awardee, former Chairman of the Oyo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, (NUJ) Comrade (Alhaji) Ademola Babalola and other distinguished guests, emphasising the importance of stronger Police-community partnerships in addressing security challenges.
