By Our Reporter 

Ondo State Police Command on Tuesday welcomed its 45th Commissioner of Police, CP Wilfred Olutokunbo Afolabi.

The newly appointed police chief who assumed duty amidst a brewing crisis in Owo, headquarters of Owo Local Government Area of the state, brings with him a wealth of experience garnered from over three decades of service within and outside Nigeria.

Born on 8th September in Bridgewater, England, to parents from Isanlu in Kogi State, CP Afolabi is a seasoned officer with a robust academic background.

He holds a BSc in Botany from the University of Ilorin and postgraduate degrees in Peace and Security Studies from the University of Port Harcourt.

Since enlisting in the Nigeria Police Force in 1992, he has undergone extensive training, including peacekeeping courses in Ghana and Bosnia, human rights training, and leadership programmes.

CP Afolabi has a distinguished record of international service, including his role as the Pioneer Regional Commander in Southern Darfur under the African Union Mission in Sudan and as the Commander of the Nigerian Contingent in Bosnia and Herzegovina with the United Nations Mission.

Domestically, he has held various strategic positions, such as Area Commander in Anambra, Deputy Commissioner of Police in Bayelsa, Katsina, and Delta States, and Director of Professional Studies at the Police Staff College, Jos.

Shortly after assuming his role in Ondo State, CP Afolabi was thrust into action with an unscheduled visit to Owo to assess the aftermath of a recent cult-related crisis that claimed four lives.

During the visit, he pledged to prioritise combating crime and social vices in the state, emphasising the command’s resolve to restore peace and security.

The Commissioner revealed that 19 suspects had been arrested in connection with the crisis, with investigations ongoing to establish their level of involvement.

In his remarks, CP Afolabi issued a stern warning to miscreants and potential criminals, urging them to steer clear of Ondo State as the command intensifies its efforts to rid the state of criminal activities.

CP Afolabi is not just a law enforcement officer but also a family man who enjoys reading and travelling.

His assumption of duty signals a renewed commitment to the safety and security of Ondo State.