The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State, Ikioye Orutugu, has issued a fervent call to all indigenes in the diaspora, urging them to return en masse for the forthcoming Christmas celebrations.

 

 

The Commissioner declared the state “free and peaceful,” citing the recent successful and peaceful gubernatorial election as a testament to the command’s security effectiveness.

 

 

Speaking on Sunday night, November 9, after the conclusion of what is widely considered the most peaceful governorship election in the state’s history, the Police boss assured that indigenes can look forward to a peaceful and safe festive season.

 

 

 

CP Orutugu, who took over the Anambra State Command nine months ago, affirmed that deliberate and proactive policing measures have made the state secure for all. According to him, “Anambra is a safe place. Prepare and come home for Christmas.”

 

 

Known for his community-driven and intelligence-led approach, the Commissioner has implemented a strategy that prioritizes crime prevention, rapid response, and trust-building with the public. He emphasized a philosophy of “policing without guns,” explaining, “I police not your actions but your emotions by counseling, appealing to your conscience.”

 

 

He noted that he first strengthened collaboration with traditional rulers, youth groups, and religious leaders to ensure early intelligence sharing and foster public confidence in the police. This intelligence-led strategy uses actionable information to prevent and disrupt criminal activities, ensuring all local governments have been relatively safe.

 

 

Acknowledging the successes of his flashpoint deployment strategy, the Commissioner said everyone would be assured of safety as the security architecture has covered all flashpoints and border communities.

 

 

 

When asked about accountability, CP Orutugu stressed zero tolerance for misconduct, extortion, or abuse of power, insisting that professionalism and respect for human rights remain central to policing in the state.

 

 

 

He concluded: “Residents and indigenes returning home for the festive season can expect a visible security presence, rapid response readiness, and a policing system designed to safeguard lives and property. With the combination of community engagement and strategic deployments, Anambra has emerged as a model for peace and security in the region. Through deliberate policing and grassroots engagement, we have maintained peace. Anambra is ready for the festive season. Come home.”