When CP Ikioye Orutugu assumed office as the 35th Commissioner of Police, Anambra State, on February 10, 2025, he made a firm commitment to reclaim public spaces, curb violent crimes, and restore security across the state. In his maiden press briefing, he articulated a vision of proactive policing, community engagement, and a relentless pursuit of justice. Barely weeks into his tenure, Assistant News Editor PRECIOUS IGBONWELUNDU reports that his multi-pronged strategies have begun yielding positive results in the state hitherto marred by terrorism, violent extremism and carnage.
Reclaiming Anambra’s Public Spaces
Upon assuming office, CP Ikioye Orutugu made it clear that his administration would not tolerate any form of criminality. “I intend to address the ideology-based crimes such as attacks on unsuspecting members of the public, security personnel, abduction of persons, and destruction of government infrastructures,” he declared.
His tenure began amid concerns over insecurity, including the gruesome murder of three siblings in Nnewi and the wanton killings of innocents in communities in Ihiala local government area, an operation base for unknown gunmen and outlawed IPOB/ESN deviants.
During a visit to the Nnewi crime scene, he reassured the public of his commitment to unraveling the circumstances surrounding the crime and ensuring that justice prevailed. Unlike previous incidents of kidnappings and unexplained disappearances, he vowed that such cases would not be swept under the carpet.
True to his word, CP Orutugu swiftly reorganized the command’s crime-fighting strategies, deploying intelligence assets, strengthening partnerships with security agencies, and leveraging community-based policing to enhance security in the state.
One of CP Orutugu’s first moves was fostering strategic alliances with key stakeholders including political leaders, youth associations, community leaders and relevant ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) in the state with a focus on addressing security concerns.
One of such meetings was the one he had with the Speaker, Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze which centered on the re-arrest of the two fleeing suspects in the murder of lawmaker, Justice Azuka- a member representing Onitsha 1 constituency who was kidnapped, murdered by his abductors after collecting ransom and his body dumped on the Second Niger Bridge.
Similarly, the Commissioner hosted the state’s Attorney General, Prof. (Mrs.) Sylvia Chika Ifemeje, to strengthen collaboration between the police and the judiciary. This partnership aimed to ensure swift prosecution of criminals and improved evidence gathering to secure convictions.
In a bid to address youth-related crimes, CP Orutugu partnered the state’s Ministry of Women Affairs to launch initiatives that would discourage criminal tendencies among young people. During a meeting with Commissioner Ify Obinabo, he emphasized the critical role of women in shaping societal values, advocating for their active participation in crime prevention and control efforts.
The collaboration aims to empower women with resources to educate and discipline children effectively;
encourage community-based initiatives for social cohesion, as well as work with women-led organisations to develop crime prevention strategies, thus tackling the root causes of ideology based crimes and criminality in the state.
Reactivating Manhunt for Fleeing Suspects
Although the kidnap and murder of Azuka, and the escape from lawful custody of two of the suspects happened before Orutugu resumed duty as the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, he wasted no time in taking decisive action.
Recognizing the gravity of the case, he ordered a meticulous investigation, leading to the arrest of several suspects, including drivers who assisted the criminal gang. However, two principal suspects- Ikemefuna Ossai and Chinedu Okoli-escaped during an operation.
Determined to prevent similar security lapses, CP Orutugu took measures including the activation of operational strategies to track and apprehend the suspects, as well as the implementation of disciplinary actions against officers whose lapses led to the escape.
This resolute approach has reassured the people of Anambra that no criminal will be above the law.
Enhancing Public Safety and Interagency Collaboration
A key aspect of CP Orutugu’s strategy is the reinforcement of public safety measures. He has engaged officers in charge of surveillance, patrol, and guard units, urging them to uphold professionalism and vigilance. In addition, newly passed-out recruits were deployed across various police divisions, strengthening the command’s capacity to respond swiftly to security incidents.
Recognizing that security is a collective effort, CP Orutugu has prioritized interagency collaboration. He visited key security agencies, including:
The 302 Artillery Regiment (General Support), Onitsha;
the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
These visits underscored the need for intelligence sharing and seamless coordination to tackle security challenges effectively.
Cracking Down on Cultism and Other Vices
Understanding the impact of cultism on public safety, CP Orutugu has intensified efforts to curb the menace. On February 13, he received the leadership of the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV). He charged them with sustaining advocacy efforts to dissuade young people from engaging in cult-related activities.
POCACOV’s approach includes
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school and community outreach programmes, and partnerships with youth organizations.
To further combat organized crime, the Commissioner has also reorganized the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Awkuzu, ensuring that its operations are more transparent and effective.
Tackling IPOB-ESN Threats and Illegal Sit-at-Home Orders
Another significant challenge has been the enforcement of illegal sit-at-home orders by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
In response, the police command has
increased patrols and surveillance in volatile areas; strengthened intelligence gathering, and ensured strategic deployment of personnel and resources.
Through these efforts, normalcy is gradually returning to parts of the state previously affected by IPOB’s activities.
Proactive Steps to End Farmer-Herder Clashes
To address longstanding conflicts between herders and local farmers, CP Orutugu has revived the Cattle Menace Committee. This initiative aims to mitigate disputes, prevent destruction of farmlands, and foster peaceful coexistence.
The Commissioner’s engagement with the Hausa-Fulani community has been instrumental in finding lasting solutions to these issues.
Breakthroughs in Anti-Trafficking Operations
One of the most remarkable achievements under CP Orutugu’s leadership has been the recent crackdown on human trafficking. On February 15, police operatives in Onitsha arrested a syndicate involved in child trafficking and rescued 10 malnourished children.
Key suspects, including a fake doctor, were apprehended, and investigations revealed that a five-year-old girl had been sold for ₦1 million. The command is working with the Ministry of Women Affairs to rehabilitate the rescued children and reunite them with their families.
A Safer Anambra: The Road Ahead
CP Orutugu’s first few weeks in office have set a promising precedent. His commitment to inclusive policing, proactive crime prevention, and strategic partnerships has instilled a renewed sense of security in Anambra State.
“For those who have been misled into crime, retrace your steps now. The command is poised to deal squarely with all acts of criminality, regardless of status. A stitch in time saves nine,” Orutugu warned.