Idongesit Ashameri, Uyo
For 51 families in Akwa Ibom, a financial burden left behind by the death of police officers who served the nation has received some relief, following the presentation of N39.97 million in welfare cheques to their families and next-of-kin.
The cheques, valued at exactly N39,967,409.28, were presented by the Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police.
The beneficiaries are families of deceased police officers who served in the Nigeria Police Force before their death, with the intervention expected to support their welfare, education and other family needs.
Presenting the cheques, Azare acknowledged that the financial assistance could not compensate the families for the loss of their loved ones but said it was a demonstration that the Police had not forgotten the officers’ service or the people they left behind.
“While no amount of money can replace the lives of our departed colleagues, this intervention demonstrates that the Nigeria Police Force has not forgotten their service, sacrifice or the families they left behind,” he said.
The Commissioner urged the beneficiaries to use the money judiciously, particularly in meeting family welfare and educational needs and supporting the development of their dependants.
For families that have had to cope with the absence of their loved ones, the intervention offers practical support at a time when the financial responsibilities previously carried by the deceased officers may have become more difficult to meet.
Azare conveyed the condolences of the Inspector-General of Police and the entire Akwa Ibom State Police Command to the bereaved families, assuring them of the continued solidarity and support of the Force.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Aniedi Joseph Etuk expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police and the Commissioner of Police for prioritising the welfare of families of deceased officers.
Etuk assured the Commissioner that the beneficiaries would make judicious use of the funds received.
Among the beneficiaries are Edidiong Enoh Umoh, Edidiong Umem Okon, Praise Ochanya Paul, David Umem Okon, Emem Enoh Umoh, Eno Obong Monday I, Nwobodo Nwanganga, Uwakiafoe Itoro Udo, Favour Miracle I, Emem Udak Okon, Godspower Udak Okon, Emmanuel Ndiereka, Rose Ndifreke Archibong and Stephen Meshak Ugo, among others.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the command’s commitment to the welfare of serving and retired police personnel as well as families of deceased officers.
He said the presentation was also part of the Nigeria Police Force’s effort to honour the memory of officers who served the country and to maintain its responsibility towards their loved ones.
