BREAKING: PSC Appoints Agbonika As Edo Police Commissioner, Tasks Him With Preventing Reprisal After Uromi Lynching

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has approved the appointment of Monday Agbonika, an officer from the Police Mounted Troop, as the new Commissioner of Police (CP) for Edo State.

He takes over from CP Betty Enekpen Isokpan Otimenyin, who previously held the position, Ikechukwu Ani, PSC Head of Press and Public Relations disclosed in a statement on Thursday.

Agbonika's appointment was confirmed following a posting interview at the Police Service Commission, which was overseen by the Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu (rtd.), alongside Justice Paul Adamu Galumje, a retired Supreme Court Justice, and Chief Onyemuche Nnamani, the Commission's Secretary.

During the interview, the leadership of the PSC emphasised the urgency of the new CP's role, urging him to be proactive in reducing crime rates and to address security concerns in the state swiftly.

The Commission also stressed the importance of tackling the recent killings in Edo, including the brutal lynching of at least 16 northern hunters in the state—a tragic incident that has heightened fears of retaliatory violence.

The PSC underscored that Agbonika’s actions regarding the suspects arrested in connection with the killings would be pivotal in shaping his success in the role.

He was also urged to investigate the recent killings in the state and reminded that his actions, or lack thereof, regarding the arrested suspects, would play a crucial role in determining his success in the state.

“You have to sit up and also work to win the confidence of the people, consult relevant stakeholders and always document every incident and action taken and make sure those who should be informed are properly informed of your actions," the PSC leadership was quoted to have told him.

In light of the recent violent events, including the lynching of the hunters, which has escalated tensions in the region, the PSC urged Agbonika to ensure the safety of all citizens and prevent any further clashes.

In response, CP Agbonika assured the PSC that he would uphold the rule of law and rely on the guidance of the Inspector General of Police in carrying out his duties.

He emphasised his commitment to restoring peace and security in Edo State.

Before this appointment, Agbonika served as the Commissioner of Police for the Mounted Troop at Force Headquarters and has held various positions throughout his 32-year career.

His extensive experience spans operations, investigations, administration, public relations, and divisional police management.

Agbonika's previous roles include Commissioner of Police Communications (Operations), Deputy Commissioner for Interpol at the Force Criminal Investigation Department, and Area Commander for various regions in Nigeria.