Tributes pour in as Lagos Island celebrates CSP Abidemi Akanmu’s retirement

Residents, community leaders, business groups, traditional institutions, and senior police officers gathered in Lagos Island on Monday to celebrate the retirement of Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Abidemi Akanmu, the immediate past Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Central Police Division, Adeniji Adele, following 35 years of meritorious service to Nigeria.

The colourful ceremony attracted a large crowd of well-wishers, including market men and women, business associations, colleagues, friends, and family members, all of whom came to honour the veteran police officer for his contributions to security and community development during his career.

The event featured goodwill messages and tributes from associates who recounted the impact CSP Akanmu made during his years in service.

One of his close friends and course mates, CSP Adebayo Maliki, the DPO of Kirikiri Division, described the retired officer as humble, friendly, and dedicated. Recalling their long-standing relationship, Maliki noted that colleagues often referred to them as “twin brothers” because of their close bond and frequent appearances together at official engagements.

“I will definitely miss him. He is a humble and friendly officer who has always carried himself with dignity. I pray that he succeeds in all his future endeavours,” Maliki said.

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The Divisional Crime Officer (DCO) of Adeniji Adele Division, DSP Tajudeen Amao, delivered an emotional tribute, describing CSP Akanmu as a mentor whose influence had profoundly shaped his life and career.

“He is the next person in my life after God. I feel like I am leaving with him because he has touched my life in so many ways,” Amao remarked.

Also speaking at the event, the Iyaloja of Lagos Island, Alhaja Raliat Adebayo, praised the retired police officer for his integrity and fairness.

“He is a good and straightforward man who does not cheat. I pray that God continues to bless him and his wife abundantly,” she said.

Other officers who worked closely with CSP Akanmu also paid glowing tributes. Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Aloge Oluwasanya commended his former boss for his exemplary leadership, while his Personal Assistant, Corporal Ola Kelani, described him as a wonderful and compassionate officer.

Traditional institutions were also well represented at the ceremony. Members of the White Cap Chiefs attended on behalf of the Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty Oba Rilwan Akiolu. The monarch’s son, Prince Gboyega Akiolu, was also present to honour the retiring officer.

Several senior police officers graced the occasion, including Commissioner of Police, SWAT Command, CP Ayilara; his deputy, DCP Abiodun Alabi; and the DPO of Ikoyi Division, CSP Kuta Usman, among other top-ranking officers.

Various professional and community associations, including electrical dealers, hoteliers, artisans, market groups, and sister security agencies operating across Lagos Island, presented gifts and awards to CSP Akanmu in recognition of his outstanding service, professionalism, and commitment to public safety.

In a special tribute, members of the retired officer’s family described him as “a testimony of God’s grace and fruitfulness,” praising his dedication to duty and service to humanity.

“You wore the uniform and badge with dignity, honour, and pride. Your years of dedicated service, commitment to duty, and sacrifice to humanity will always be remembered,” the family stated.