The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, held a send-forth reception in honor of the outgoing Commissioner of Police, Benneth Igweh, and the former Director of the Department of State Security Services (DSS), Assistant Director General (ADG) Ado Mu’azu. The event, which took place on Saturday, August 14, 2024, at the Minister’s official residence in Life Camp, Abuja, celebrated the two security chiefs for their exemplary service to the FCT during their tenures.
Speaking at the reception, Barr. Wike praised the contributions of AIG Igweh and ADG Mu’azu to the security and safety of the nation’s capital. Their recent promotions, he said, are a testament to their dedication, hard work, and commitment to protecting the lives and property of FCT residents.
“I have always believed in honoring people who have made sacrifices while they are alive,” Wike stated. “It’s not just when they are no longer with us that we should recognize their efforts. These two gentlemen have worked tirelessly to ensure we can all sleep with our eyes closed, and it’s important to show our gratitude now.”
The Minister emphasized that both men played critical roles in maintaining peace and security in the capital. He noted that the promotion of AIG Igweh and ADG Mu’azu not only recognized their service but also ensured that their talents would continue to benefit the country at higher levels of responsibility.
AIG Benneth Igweh, who was recently promoted from Commissioner of Police in the FCT to Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 7, which includes the FCT, Kaduna, and Niger states, was lauded by Barr. Wike for his relentless fight against crime. Wike described Igweh as a “committed and rugged police officer” who has consistently demonstrated the determination to combat criminality in the FCT.
“I know the role you play, the sleepless nights, the relentless efforts to keep the FCT safe,” Wike said. “I receive daily security reports and know the level of crime you are preventing. The people of Abuja may not always see the work you do because you don’t often make public announcements, but your contributions are immense.”
Wike expressed his initial concern over the prospect of losing Igweh’s services following his promotion. However, he was relieved to learn that despite the promotion, Igweh’s jurisdiction would still cover the FCT, ensuring continuity in the capital’s security.
ADG Ado Mu’azu, who was recently promoted to a national-level position within the DSS, was also commended by Barr. Wike for his discreet yet highly effective leadership in the FCT. Describing him as “very quiet but very committed,” the Minister thanked the new Director-General of the DSS for recognizing Mu’azu’s abilities and elevating him to a more prominent role.
Wike further highlighted the collaborative relationship between the FCT administration and the DSS under Mu’azu’s leadership, which contributed significantly to the overall security framework of the territory.
Barr. Wike urged both AIG Igweh and ADG Mu’azu to continue serving the nation with the same level of commitment they demonstrated in the FCT. He called on them to support the government in its efforts to safeguard citizens’ lives, particularly in their new capacities at the national level. Wike also extended his appreciation to other security agencies operating in the FCT for their cooperation and joint efforts in ensuring the safety and security of the capital.
In his response, AIG Benneth Igweh expressed his gratitude to the FCT Minister for his unwavering support during his tenure as Commissioner of Police. He acknowledged the critical role that collaboration with the FCT administration played in enabling the police to fulfill their mandate effectively.
Igweh reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining security in the FCT in his new role as AIG in charge of Zone 7. He sent a clear message to criminal elements operating in the region, warning them that his presence in the FCT is far from over and that he now has even greater authority to tackle crime.
“I want to inform Abuja residents that I am still here, and now I have more powers,” Igweh said. “If you’re a criminal in the FCT, you better start thinking about where to run because I am not going anywhere. I am now an AIG, and I will continue to supervise what is happening in Abuja.
AIG Igweh assured FCT residents of their continued safety and pledged that he and other security agencies would remain vigilant in the fight against crime. He called on the FCT administration, under the leadership of Barr. Wike, to continue providing the necessary support to enable security forces to carry out their duties effectively.
The reception served as a formal send-forth for two key figures who played pivotal roles in maintaining the security of the FCT, marking the end of one chapter in their service and the beginning of another at the national level. With their promotions, both men are set to contribute further to the safety and stability of the nation from their new positions of influence.
