BY TONY OKAFOR
The recent transfer of Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Obong Nnache Itam, and the appointment of Livingstein Ikioye Orutugu as his replacement, presents an opportunity to reflect on the contrasting tenures of Itam and his predecessor, Aderemi Adeoye.
Adeoye’s tenure was marked by a significant reduction in crime rates, and his open-door policy and listening ear made him accessible and responsive to the people’s needs.
His commitment to community policing and engagement earned him the respect and admiration of the people, as evident in the naming of a street after him and the conferment of chieftaincy titles by traditional rulers.
In contrast, Itam’s tenure was characterized by a rise in insecurity, including kidnapping and the Nibo massacre, just poles from the state command headquarters.
His leadership style, which was often criticized for being detached and unresponsive, contributed to the sense of unease and mistrust among the populace.
It is no surprise that his removal was met with jubilation across the state.
As we bid farewell to Itam, we hope that his successor, Orutugu, will learn from the past and prioritize the safety and security of Anambra residents.
Effective leadership is not just about enforcing laws, but also about building trust, engaging with the community, and being responsive to their needs.
To succeed, Orutugu must adopt a more inclusive and participatory approach to policing, one that recognizes the importance of community involvement and collaboration.
He must also tackle the root causes of insecurity in the state, including land grabbing, cult-related violence fueled by leadership power struggles, particularly in public areas like parks and markets.
As the people of Anambra welcome the new CP, we remind him that the state’s history is replete with examples of leaders who have made a positive impact.
As Orutugu begins his tenure, we urge him to draw inspiration from Aderemi Adeoye, who left an indelible mark on Anambra State through his community-focused approach.
By working tirelessly to address the state’s security challenges, Orutugu can leave a lasting legacy that benefits the people of Anambra for generations to come.
