By Hon. Sir Collins Ughalaa
Imo State has recorded tremendous success in the fight against crime, particularly kidnapping, armed robbery, and other forms of criminality. Much of this progress is attributed to the strategic and exemplary leadership of Commissioner of Police Aboki Danjuma. His tireless dedication, professionalism, and results-driven approach have played a pivotal role in ensuring the safety of residents.
CP Aboki Danjuma officially assumed duty as the Commissioner of Police in Imo State on Tuesday, November 14, 2023. A native of Wukari Local Government Area in Taraba State, he is the 41st Commissioner of Police in the state. According to police records, he enlisted in the Nigeria Police Force as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) in 1992 and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Library Science from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. A seasoned officer, strategist, and crime fighter, he has served the force in various capacities, including as Divisional Police Officer and Area Commander across multiple commands.
Danjuma’s extensive career includes serving as Deputy Commandant at the Police College, Ikeja (PCI), and Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance. He also served as the Administrative Deputy Commissioner in the Ondo State Police Command and later as Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (DCSCID) in Niger State. His professional development includes several advanced courses, such as the Combat Operations Course (COC), Intermediate Command Course (ICC), Tactical Leadership Command Course (TLCC), and Senior Leadership and Command Course (SLCC).
From the moment he took office, CP Danjuma made it clear that he is not a commissioner who issues orders from behind a desk. Instead, he leads from the front, directly engaging in security operations to ensure Imo State remains safe. A striking example of this was on March 8, 2024, when, following security breaches in Abacheke community, Egbema, he personally led a team of officers to patrol the area, hunting down the assailants. He assured residents that no part of Imo State would serve as a safe haven for criminals. Since then, multiple perpetrators have been apprehended, reinforcing his commitment to law enforcement.
Under CP Danjuma’s leadership, the Imo State Police Command has achieved notable victories in crime fighting. One such breakthrough was the recent arrest of four kidnapping suspects in Irete, where arms and ammunition were recovered. This intelligence-led operation underscored his proactive policing strategy, which focuses on community engagement, intelligence-driven tactics, and collaboration with other security agencies. His accessibility and willingness to address public concerns have strengthened trust between the police and the community.
Beyond his direct involvement in operations, CP Danjuma has fostered synergy between the police and other security agencies. This partnership has yielded impressive results, including the arrest of eight criminal suspects in Owerri West Local Government Area. Joint operations have led to successful raids on forest hideouts, arms recovery, and significant disruption of criminal activities. Improved intelligence sharing and enhanced operational capacity have contributed to the state’s overall security.
As criminal elements retreat to forests and remote areas, CP Danjuma has intensified efforts to flush them out. He has spearheaded multiple raids targeting criminal hideouts, ensuring that even the most secluded areas of Imo State remain under police scrutiny.
On March 10, 2025, he led a coordinated raid on forest enclaves in Avu, Irete, Okuku, Ihiagwa, and Obinze in Owerri West LGA, as well as parts of Ngor-Okpala LGA. In a follow-up operation on March 13, he extended security efforts into Ngor-Okpala, successfully dismantling criminal hideouts through collaboration with local communities.
Ngor-Okpala, which has recently been a hotspot for kidnappings, witnessed a decisive security response. In simultaneous operations involving sister security agencies, several suspects were arrested, and an arsenal of weapons and incriminating items was recovered, including two automatic pump-action guns, 17 live cartridges, nine walkie-talkies, three cutlasses, seven mobile phones, laptops, a power bike, and other items. Earlier, on March 2, 2025, CP Danjuma’s tactical unit arrested four suspected kidnappers in Irete, further weakening criminal networks. His Special Tactical Unit, tasked with identifying and eliminating criminals in forests and remote locations, has been relentless in its pursuit, leaving criminals reeling.
CP Danjuma’s proactive approach to policing has earned him widespread admiration. His willingness to personally lead security operations demonstrates a rare commitment to duty, reinforcing confidence in his leadership. His direct involvement in high-risk operations, from raids on criminal hideouts to high-speed pursuits, highlights his hands-on leadership style.
His efforts have not gone unnoticed. Social media platforms have been flooded with commendations from Imo residents, expressing gratitude for his role in improving security. Traditional rulers and community leaders have also praised his exploits. During his visit to the traditional rulers of Umuhu and Ihitte-Okwe autonomous communities in Ngor-Okpala LGA, he received overwhelming accolades for his contributions to crime fighting.
The Imo State Commissioner for Information, Public Orientation, and Strategy, Hon. Declan Emelumba recently reported a significant decline in crime rates. Despite some external narratives suggesting persistent insecurity, official statistics indicate that the police are gaining the upper hand. According to the Imo State Police Command, cases of armed robbery dropped to 391 in 2024 from 502 in 2022. The report credited this progress to modern policing strategies and logistical support from the state government.
CP Danjuma’s achievements have been reinforced by the unwavering support of Governor Hope Uzodimma. Faced with high crime rates and security threats, the governor quickly implemented strategic security measures and enhanced support for law enforcement agencies. His commitment to providing the necessary resources for security operations has played a vital role in the police’s success.
As Imo State continues its journey towards lasting peace, the dedication of CP Aboki Danjuma remains indispensable. His fearless approach, relentless drive, and strategic initiatives have not only curbed crime but also restored hope in the state’s security apparatus.
May his efforts be crowned with even greater success. And may criminals in Imo State continue to face relentless defeat.
Hon. Sir Collins Ughalaa
Special Adviser to the Governor (Imo State) on Public Orientation.
March 16, 2025.
