Yewa leaders and residents in Ogun State have celebrated former Inspector General of Police Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun for a distinguished career built on discipline, integrity and service.
The civic reception, themed celebrating a life of service integrity and leadership, was held at Yewa Frontier Hotel in Ilaro and organised by the Yewa People Development Council in partnership with the Yewa Traditional Council.
Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by Secretary to the State Government Kehinde Onosanya, described the event as a historic gathering that showcased Yewaland’s culture of gratitude and unity. He said the state is proud to honour sons and daughters who bring respect to Ogun and Nigeria.
Abiodun praised Egbetokun as the first Ogun indigene to become Inspector General of Police, noting that his tenure was marked by professionalism, reforms and efforts that strengthened public confidence in policing and national security.
He highlighted the retired police chief’s role in improving security in Yewaland, especially in resolving farmer herder clashes and better protecting lives and property in affected communities. These efforts, he said, helped restore stability and support agricultural activities.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to security, promising continued investment in modern security infrastructure and closer collaboration among agencies. He urged youths to remain peaceful as elections approach and encouraged them to emulate Egbetokun’s discipline and dedication as a model of responsible citizenship.
Senator Solomon Adeola Yayi, representing Ogun West, hailed Egbetokun as a consistent and dependable figure he has known for over 30 years. He thanked God for bringing him back home after years of service and commended his development driven agenda in the police.
Adeola also spoke about Egbetokun’s passion for Yewaland, recalling how he constantly urged political leaders to unite so the region can produce the next governor of Ogun State. He noted the former IGP’s key role in promoting the planned University of Police in Yewa, saying the enabling bill has been passed and is awaiting presidential assent.
Minister of State for Health Kunle Salako said Egbetokun’s story proves that with determination, integrity and discipline, anyone from a humble background can rise to the top of their career.
Inspector General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu, represented by Assistant Inspector General Olohundare Moshood Jimoh, described Egbetokun’s 35 year service as exemplary. He said the former IGP’s tenure delivered major gains in crime prevention, institutional reforms and community policing that boosted public trust.
Disu noted that Egbetokun championed accountability, respect for the rule of law and responsiveness to new security threats, leaving behind a legacy that will guide modern policing in Nigeria.
Yewa paramount ruler and Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, said it was a great honour for the region to celebrate someone whose life shows what determination can achieve. He praised Egbetokun as a true son of the soil whose footprints are visible across Yewaland and the country.
The monarch said that although they could not offer him a traditional title as a prince of the land, names such as Okanlomo and Akinrogun still do not fully capture his value. The traditional council then presented him with an award in appreciation.
Chairman of the Yewa People Development Council, Professor Rahamon Bello, thanked President Bola Tinubu for appointing a Yewa son as IGP, describing Egbetokun’s career as a story of grace, hard work and continuous self improvement.
In his remarks, Egbetokun said his professional values were shaped by his upbringing in Yewaland, where he learnt discipline, honesty, accountability and respect for the law. He said these principles guided his decisions even in the toughest moments of national service.
He recalled an incident as a young officer when he rejected a N40,000 bribe at a time his monthly salary was only N2,700, saying his mother’s constant reminder that a good name is better than silver and gold taught him that character is the real measure of greatness.
Egbetokun expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the opportunities he received throughout his career, culminating in his appointment as Inspector General of Police. He pledged to continue supporting national development in retirement.
He described the celebration as an honour he shares with the people of Yewaland, Ogun State and Nigeria, saying their support made his journey possible.
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