A new Commissioner of Police, Mr. Patrick Daaor, on Monday assumed duty in Edo State, pledging to intensify the fight against crime and improve overall policing across the state.
Daaor made the commitment shortly after taking over the leadership of the Edo State Police Command from AIG Monday Agbonika at the command headquarters in Benin.
The new commissioner stated that the command would build on the successes recorded under Agbonika’s leadership while fine-tuning its crime-fighting strategies to effectively address security challenges.
“We will intensify our crime fighting approach. We’ll fine tune them,” Daaor said.
He also pledged to ensure that personnel of the command treat residents with respect and work diligently to win greater public trust. Daaor announced that he would maintain an open-door policy and urged residents to bring any issues requiring police attention to his notice for professional handling.
Responding to questions on what residents should expect under his leadership, Daaor said the command would remain highly mobile and proactive in addressing matters affecting the people.
Earlier, AIG Monday Agbonika, who was recently promoted and deployed to Zone 5, Benin City, reflected on the significant achievements recorded during his tenure. He noted that the command made notable progress in tackling cult-related violence, kidnapping, banditry, and extortion.
Agbonika urged officers to sustain and surpass the gains recorded, while continuing to serve with honour, integrity, courage, and compassion. He thanked the officers and men of the command, the state government, and residents for their support throughout his tenure.
He described the achievements as the product of collective efforts and paid tribute to officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. Agbonika also expressed special appreciation to Governor Monday Okpebholo for his consistent support and provision of logistics that enhanced the command’s operations.
The handover ceremony was attended by senior police officers, Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and members of the media.
