The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 9, AIG Kanayo Uzuegbu, has passed away.

Abia State Governor Alex Otti disclosed the news on Saturday during the Labour Party primaries in the state, revealing that the senior police officer died after battling cancer-related complications.

According to the governor, efforts were made to save Uzuegbu’s life, including arranging medical treatment in Enugu before plans were made to transfer him back to the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia.

“We struggled to save his life and sent him to Enugu for treatment. I was later informed that he was to be transferred back to the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia,” Otti said.

He added that the Commissioner of Police in Abia State, Danladi Isa, subsequently confirmed the officer’s death.

Describing the late AIG as a good and dedicated officer, Otti expressed deep regret over his passing and directed that a minute of silence be observed in his honour.

Uzuegbu assumed office as the AIG in charge of Zone 9 last year.

Reacting to the news, former Abia State governors Orji Uzor Kalu and Theodore Orji extended their condolences to the Nigeria Police Force, the deceased’s family, and all those affected by the loss.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, who represents Abia North Senatorial District, described Uzuegbu as a disciplined, dedicated, and highly professional officer whose service to the nation was marked by commitment and integrity.

Kalu noted that the late police chief made significant contributions to maintaining peace, security, and public order, particularly in the South-East, adding that his death was a painful loss to both the Nigeria Police Force and the country.

He also conveyed his sympathies to the Inspector-General of Police, officers and men of the force, the governments and people of Abia and Imo states, the people of Njaba Local Government Area, and the bereaved family.

The senator prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased’s soul and asked God to grant his loved ones the strength to bear the loss.

Similarly, former Governor Theodore Orji described the death of the AIG as shocking and untimely.

Speaking through his liaison officer, Ifeanyi Umere, Orji offered prayers for the family and all those affected, asking God to grant them the fortitude to cope with the loss.

The death of AIG Kanayo Uzuegbu has been widely mourned by political leaders, security personnel, and residents who remembered him for his service and commitment to duty.