...Describes him as an incorruptible, compassionate, media-friendly police officer with an exceptional record of service
By DELE ALABI, Lagos
A veteran crime journalist, Folorunsho Atta, has paid glowing tribute to retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG), Adegoke Mustapha Fayoade, describing him as an exceptionally principled, compassionate and people-oriented police officer whose distinguished career was marked by professionalism, integrity, outstanding investigative and operational expertise.
Atta's commendation comes ahead of Fayoade's official pull-out ceremony scheduled for Thursday at the prestigious Police College, Ikeja, Lagos, with preparations for the event reportedly in top gear.
Reflecting on his years of professional interaction with the retired police chief, Atta described him as an officer who detested corruption, stood firmly for the truth irrespective of whose interests were affected, and consistently upheld accountability, both for himself and officers under his command.
According to the crime journalist, Fayoade distinguished himself through his exceptional listening skills, calm disposition and ability to resolve complicated disputes through dialogue, mediation and mutual understanding.
"He was an ideal police officer: cool-headed, approachable and compassionate. He never allowed anger to take control of his judgment and treated people with dignity and respect, regardless of their social status.
"He was always willing to listen, resolve difficult situations and mediate between opposing parties. He believed in justice, fairness and accountability and had little tolerance for officers who abused their positions," Atta said.
He further described Fayoade as one of the most media-friendly police officers he encountered in the course of his journalism career, noting his consistent respect for journalists, community members, sister security agencies, students, market leaders and other critical stakeholders.
Atta disclosed that Fayoade's exceptional performance while serving as Divisional Police Officer (DPO) and Area Commander earned him several commendations and awards, largely because of his operational effectiveness community relations and commitment to professional policing.
He particularly recalled that Fayoade was recognised on more than three occasions as Lagos State's Best DPO, while the Ilupeju Police Division, during his tenure, was named the cleanest police division by the CLEEN Foundation.
Beyond his achievements in divisional and area command responsibilities, Atta noted that Fayoade's career was distinguished by his versatility and extensive exposure to different sensitive departments and operational formations of the Nigeria Police Force.
According to him, the retired DIG served in several strategic capacities, including as an aide-de-camp (ADC) to a state governor, in the Police Training Department, Marine Police and Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
He also served as DPO in more than five police divisions across Lagos State and as an Area Commander in a neighbouring state, gaining considerable experience in operational policing, intelligence gathering, criminal investigations and command administration.
Atta further observed that Fayoade eventually rounded off his distinguished career in the Police Information Technology Department, bringing his wealth of experience to bear on the Force's evolving technological and administrative needs.
Emphasising the retired officer's commitment to justice, Atta said one of the qualities that endeared him to many was his strong opposition to the abuse of police powers, particularly the extortion of suspects.
He recalled that Fayoade consistently frowned upon officers who allegedly subjected suspects to financial demands or used their positions to exploit vulnerable members of the public.
For Atta, Fayoade's greatest legacy goes beyond the ranks he attained, the commands he headed or the awards he received.
"It lies in the human relationships he built, the lives he touched, his commitment to fairness and the example he set for younger officers".
As the retired police chief prepares to take his final bow from active service at Thursday's pull-out ceremony, Atta said his career offers valuable lessons in integrity, professionalism, community partnership and responsible leadership.
He expressed the hope that serving police officers would draw inspiration from Fayoade's record and embrace a policing culture anchored on discipline, respect for human rights, accountability and public trust.
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