IGP Disu Honours Retired Ogun Traffic Officer for Exemplary Service

Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu on Thursday presented the IGP’s Award of Recognition, accompanied by cash support, to retired Deputy Superintendent of Traffic Anifa Bello Abiodun at Force Headquarters in Abuja.

The honour recognised her long career in traffic management with the Ogun State Police Command, particularly her service in Abeokuta.

Disu praised her professionalism, discipline, resilience and dedication, noting that such officers earn genuine public goodwill when they perform their duties responsibly.

Anifa Bello Abiodun, popularly known in Ogun State as a diligent traffic warden, joined the service in September 1991 and retired after approximately 35 years. She was long associated with the busy NNPC Junction in Ibara, Abeokuta, where motorists and residents frequently acknowledged her firm but fair approach to traffic control. In a recent interview marking her retirement, she recounted the challenges of the job, including a serious accident that left her with injuries, as well as the personal fulfilment she derived from public service.

Her reputation for integrity was already established years earlier. In 2016 she was assaulted by a Divisional Police Officer after stopping his private vehicle for a traffic violation; the incident drew public outrage and led to the officer’s demotion under then-IGP Solomon Arase. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo had previously recommended her for national recognition during a visit to the state.

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Speaking at the presentation, Disu stressed that the public judges the Police Force by the conduct of individual officers. While the Force will continue to hold personnel accountable for misconduct, he said, it is equally important to celebrate those who demonstrate integrity and exemplary service. Such recognition, he added, reinforces expected standards and encourages others to distinguish themselves.

The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, said the gesture forms part of a broader commitment to promote accountability, reward outstanding conduct and strengthen public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.