Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has honoured five outgoing security commanders for their meritorious service to the state, praising their sacrifices, professionalism and contributions to the prevailing peace and security across Abia.

The commanders were honoured on Wednesday, August 19, at the Michael Okpara Auditorium in Umuahia during a send-off ceremony organised by the state government to mark their transfer to new national assignments.

The honourees were AIG Danladi Isa, immediate past Commissioner of Police, Abia State; Brigadier General H.M. Bello, outgoing Commander, 14 Brigade, Ohafia; Ibrahim Sarki, immediate past State Director of the Department of State Services; Akintola Aderemi, immediate past State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps; and Chigbu Odoemelam, outgoing Commandant of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency.

Each of the outgoing commanders was presented with a brand-new SUV and additional gifts approved by the governor.

Speaking at the event, Otti, who described himself as the Chief Security Officer of the state, acknowledged the demanding nature of security work and the sacrifices made by the commanders.

“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,” the governor said.

He thanked the commanders for their sacrifices, hard work, cooperation and discipline, saying their efforts had contributed significantly to the level of peace and security recorded across the state.

“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,” Otti said.

Otti reaffirms non-interference policy

The governor also used the occasion to reiterate his administration’s policy of allowing security agencies to carry out their lawful responsibilities without political interference.

He said the government regularly reviews the state’s security situation through monthly State Security Council meetings, where security reports are assessed, strategies reviewed and new deployments planned.

Otti maintained that his administration would not interfere with lawful police or security operations, including efforts by individuals to use political influence to secure the release of suspected criminals.

He said the government remained committed to the rule of law and urged those operating within the law not to be afraid.

Security chiefs commend governor

In his remarks, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Emmanuel Meribole, commended the outgoing commanders for their professionalism, teamwork and dedication to duty.

He said their contributions had played an important role in creating the peaceful and secure environment currently enjoyed across Abia.

The outgoing commanders also expressed appreciation to Governor Otti for the recognition and support they received during their service in the state.

Brigadier General Bello and AIG Danladi Isa thanked the governor for honouring them, while Sarki, Aderemi and Odoemelam said the administration provided the logistics and support required for them to perform their duties effectively.

They also commended Otti for allowing security agencies to operate without interference and described Abia as blessed with a compassionate and supportive governor.

The commanders pledged to remain good ambassadors of the state in their new assignments.

The ceremony served not only as a farewell to the outgoing security chiefs but also as an affirmation of the Otti administration’s approach to security, which combines institutional support, regular security reviews and non-interference in lawful operations.