The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Tunji Disu, has paid tribute to Sgt. John Abena, a police officer killed during a joint security operation to rescue schoolchildren abducted in Oyo State, while commending officers involved in the mission for their bravery.
Speaking on Friday while receiving personnel who participated in the operation, the IGP said the successful rescue came at a heavy cost, with one officer losing his life in the line of duty.
“We just finished prayers for the officer we lost in the Oyo State school abduction incident. I advised you some weeks ago that you would be joining other sister agencies on a very serious national assignment. I’m happy you went and did us proud”, he said.
The police chief said officers injured during the operation were responding well to treatment, adding that the Force would continue to support them and the family of the slain officer.
“We are happy they are recovering very fast”, he said, noting that both government and private hospitals were providing medical care.
Explaining why the police publicly announce the deaths of officers killed in the line of duty, the IGP said officers deserved to be honoured and mourned like any other citizens.
“Police officers are human beings. They have emotions. They feel it when a colleague dies,” he said, adding that such officers died while protecting the public.
He also praised the collaboration between the police and other security agencies, stressing that no single agency could tackle insecurity alone.
“We have made up our minds to work together, train together and fight this insurgency together,” he said.
The IGP urged Nigerians to support security agencies by providing timely information.
