By Olisemeka Sony

The Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of the South-East geopolitical zone, DIG Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening collaboration among security agencies, government institutions, traditional rulers, and community stakeholders to promote lasting peace, security, and public safety across the region.

DIG Onwuemelie made the commitment on Tuesday during a courtesy visit to the Palace of the Traditional Ruler of Awka Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Obi Dr. Gibson Nwosu, Eze Uzu II of Awka.

Addressing the monarch, traditional leaders, and stakeholders, the senior police officer described the visit as both an official engagement and a homecoming.

“Your Majesty, it is with a deep sense of humility and profound respect that I stand before you today. I come not only as the Deputy Inspector General of Police overseeing the South-East, but also as a proud son of Awka, a beneficiary of the values and heritage that this revered throne represents,” Onwuemelie said.

He explained that his visit formed part of his operational tour of police commands within the South-East zone, undertaken in line with the directives of the Inspector-General of Police.

According to him, it was culturally appropriate to first pay homage to his traditional ruler before proceeding with official engagements in the state.

“I have already met with strategic officers of the Anambra State Police Command and will later engage a broad spectrum of stakeholders. However, it is only proper that I first return home, pay homage to my king, receive the blessings of my fathers, and stand before the throne that raised me,” he stated.

The DIG commended the unity and strength of Awka’s traditional institutions, noting that the stability of such institutions remains crucial to the peace and development of Anambra State.

“As a senior police officer and a son of this community, I remain committed to supporting every lawful effort that promotes unity, order, and respect for constituted authority. The security challenges confronting our state and region require collaboration, vigilance, and trust,” he said.

He further described traditional institutions as indispensable partners in maintaining security.

“The Palace remains a critical partner in our security architecture. Traditional rulers are custodians of community intelligence, the first recipients of early warning signals, and the moral compass of our people. Together, we can build a safer and more secure Anambra State,” Onwuemelie added.

Earlier, the Traditional Ruler of Awka, Obi Dr. Gibson Nwosu, described DIG Onwuemelie as a distinguished police officer and worthy ambassador of Awka Kingdom.

“We are proud of his achievements and grateful that he deemed it necessary to return home and identify with the traditional institution. Awka people remain committed to supporting security agencies in maintaining peace and stability,” the monarch said through the Onowu of Awka Kingdom, Chief Benjamin Okoye.

The Chairman of Awka South Local Government Area, Prince Chinedu Okafor, and the President-General of ADUN, Chief Fred Chinwuba, also commended the DIG for prioritising community engagement in his approach to security management.

Chinwuba praised Onwuemelie’s professionalism and dedication to service.

“He has continued the legacy of discipline and excellence associated with his family. He is a diligent, thorough, and respected officer who has made Awka proud. We pray for greater success in his career and leadership responsibilities,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of traditional stakeholders, Chief Jonathan Nzekwe described the DIG’s decision to collaborate closely with traditional institutions as a strategic and commendable move.

“What he has done today is a welcome development for Awka, Anambra State, and the South-East region. Security is a collective responsibility, and we fully support his vision. He has received the blessings of the traditional institution,” Nzekwe stated.

Similarly, Chairman of the Awka Youth Council, Comrade Ikechukwu Ezenwa, expressed optimism that the renewed partnership between security agencies and community stakeholders would help address insecurity and reduce tension in the region.

“We are encouraged by the DIG’s willingness to engage directly with the people. This approach will help strengthen trust, reduce criminal activities, and promote peace across Awka and the wider South-East. Awka youths are ready to contribute their quota to the restoration of peace and stability,” Ezenwa said.

Also speaking, Chief Obiora Charles Anueyiagu urged young people across Awka and the South-East to emulate the exemplary leadership and humility demonstrated by the DIG.

“It is not every day that a high-ranking public officer returns home to seek the blessings of his people and traditional institution. I believe the goodwill and royal blessings he received today will continue to open greater doors of success for him,” Anueyiagu said.

The visit highlighted the growing recognition of traditional institutions as critical partners in intelligence gathering, conflict prevention, and community-based policing efforts aimed at fostering sustainable peace and security across the South-East. High point of the visit was a special prayer offered to the police chief by the revered Awka Monarch, Obi Gibson Nwosu.

In attendance were executive members of the Anambra State Traditional Prime Ministers (Onowu) Council from the three senatorial zones of the state; the Onowu of Awka and Otutu Awka II, Chief Benjamin Okoye; members of the Eze Uzu-in-Council; Ndi Ozo Awka; the President-General of Awka Development Union Nigeria (ADUN), Chief Fred Chinwuba; Chairman of Awka South Local Government Area, Prince Chinedu Okafor; Chief Jonathan Nzekwe; Chief Obiora Charles Anueyiagu; youth leaders, and other prominent stakeholders.