By Chigozie Igbo Jr
In a period when public confidence in security institutions is critical to social stability and economic growth, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has emerged as a symbol of purposeful leadership and proactive policing. Since assuming office, CP Orutugu has pursued a clear and deliberate mission: to make Anambra State safe, peaceful, and livable for residents, investors, and visitors alike.
At the heart of his strategy is intelligence-driven policing. CP Orutugu has strengthened intelligence gathering and analysis, ensuring that criminal activities are anticipated and neutralised before they escalate. This forward-looking approach has translated into sustained patrols, strategic stop-and-search operations, and targeted raids on criminal hideouts across the state. The result has been a noticeable disruption of violent crimes, cultism, armed robbery, and other threats to public safety.
Beyond enforcement, CP Orutugu understands that security is a shared responsibility. He has consistently promoted strong collaboration between the police, other security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, religious bodies, youth groups, and civil society organisations and the media,through town hall engagements and stakeholder meetings, the Commissioner has encouraged citizens to see the police as partners rather than distant enforcers, thereby rebuilding trust and fostering timely information sharing.
His leadership has also prioritised visibility policing. Under CP Orutugu, police presence has been reinforced in urban centres, highways, markets, schools, and flashpoints, particularly during festive periods and high-risk seasons, as we have today. This visible reassurance has not only deterred criminal elements but has also restored public confidence, allowing social and economic activities to thrive without fear.
Equally notable is his commitment to professionalism and discipline within the Force. CP Orutugu has repeatedly emphasised respect for human rights, ethical conduct, and adherence to the rule of law. Officers under his command are regularly reminded that effective policing must be firm yet humane, decisive yet lawful. This internal reorientation has helped improve police-community relations and enhance the image of the Force in Anambra State.
Recognising the evolving nature of crime, the Commissioner has embraced innovation and inter-agency synergy. Joint operations with the military, DSS, NSCDC, FRSC and other security outfits have been strengthened, ensuring a coordinated response to emerging security challenges. This synergy has proven critical in maintaining stability across the state.
Ultimately, CP Ikioye Orutugu’s proactive leadership reflects a deep understanding that security is the foundation of development. His mission to make Anambra a livable place goes beyond crime reduction; it is about creating an environment where businesses can grow, families can live without fear, and the state’s rich cultural and economic potential can flourish.
As Anambra continues on its path of progress, the impact of CP Orutugu’s vision-driven and people-centred policing stands as a testament to what effective leadership can achieve in safeguarding lives and property while promoting peace and prosperity.