Twenty-four retired Lagos police detectives have received a major financial reward after decades of service.
Businessman Abayomi Awoboku has purchased millions of naira worth of shares for the former officers.
Awoboku, Chief Executive Officer of Konstrutum Construction, bought shares in Dangote Refinery and Petroleum for the retirees.
He also hired a professional investment firm to manage the investment and help generate returns for the beneficiaries.
The gesture came during a retirement celebration for the detectives at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, Yaba, Lagos.
The officers had each completed 35 years of service in the Nigeria Police Force.
In a video, Awoboku explained that his contribution was intended to appreciate the retirees. He also hoped it would encourage serving officers to remain committed to their duties.
The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Fatai Tijani, expressed gratitude to the businessman.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Dayo Akinbisehin also sent an appreciation letter on behalf of the command and beneficiaries.
In the letter, Akinbisehin wrote:
“Your generous contribution constituted a remarkable demonstration of corporate responsibility, institutional solidarity and enduring goodwill towards the Nigeria Police Force.
“The occasion was further elevated by the physical presence of our Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, psc, NPM.”
Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu also praised the retirees for their decades of commitment.
“Congratulations to all of you for successfully completing thirty-five years of service in the Nigeria Police Force. This is not the end of everything. We will continue to support you, even after service. We appreciate all you did for your fatherland,” Disu said.
He further assured them:
“You are still police officers. For life, you are police officers. And we’ll continue to take care of your welfare. I wish you the best anywhere you go. Thank you so much,” he said.
The ceremony also recognised the sacrifices made by officers’ families throughout their careers.
One of the retirees, DSP Benson Emuerhi, described his 35-year career as challenging but fulfilling. He said:
“Police work is different. There is no Saturday or Sunday when it comes to protecting lives and property,” he said.
The retired Lagos police detectives were also celebrated by traditional rulers, senior officers, colleagues and family members. The event featured the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, as royal father of the day.
