By Dare Akogun
The Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN) has expressed deep shock and sorrow over the sudden death of the Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Police Command, CP Abdulwaheed Ayilara.
In a statement issued by its President, Olalekan Olabulo, CRAN described the late CP Ayilara as an exceptional senior police officer, whose dedication to duty, commitment to justice, and compassion for the people he served would be remembered for years to come.
“Late CP Ayilara was a shining example of a fine officer, a true gentleman, and a mentor to many.
“His progressive and liberal approach to policing, especially during his tenure as Deputy Commissioner of Police, State Criminal Investigation Department, Yaba, Lagos, and as Acting Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Police Command, earned him widespread respect and admiration.”
CP Ayilara was known for his open-door policy, making himself readily accessible to all, and his leadership style left a lasting impact on the Lagos State Police Command and the communities he served.
His promotion to the rank of CP and subsequent deployment to Akwa Ibom State was seen as a recognition of his exceptional service.
The CRAN statement highlighted that CP Ayilara exhibited no signs of illness and had recently interacted with members of the association during the Pull Out Parade of the immediate past Secretary of the Nigeria Police Force, AIG Yetunde Longe (rtd), in Lagos, just days before his passing.
“We are deeply saddened to bid farewell to this extraordinary individual, whose contributions to the Nigeria Police Force will never be forgotten.
“His passing is a monumental loss to the Nigeria Police Force and the entire nation.”
The statement further conveyed CRAN’s condolences to the Ayilara family, the Nigeria Police Force, and all those who had the privilege of knowing the late CP Ayilara.
“The Nigeria Police has indeed lost a senior fine officer, a man of integrity, and a champion of justice. His memory will live on through our continued commitment to justice, equality, and human rights. Rest in peace, CP Ayilara. Your memory will never be forgotten,” the statement concluded.
