The Executive Director of Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC), Mr Okechukwu Nwanguma, has hailed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Ogborikoko Division, Delta State Police Command, a Chief Superintendent of Police, Temi Agbede Zuokumor, for exposing a father who has been sexually violating his three daughters for seven years.
The exposure resulted in the arrest of their father, who introduced himself as Edward Ngozi Odega.
The victims, now aged 13, 15, and 24, had reportedly been living under the terrifying shadow of their father’s predatory control until a proactive initiative by a female police chief empowered one of them to speak out.
According to Nwanguma, the breakthrough came unexpectedly, thanks to the exemplary community-focused policing efforts of CSP Temi Agbede Zuokumor.
According to reports, the cycle of abuse was finally broken following a school outreach organised by CSP Zuokumor’s team, focused on safety education and child empowerment.
During the sensitisation programme, one of the girls found the courage to disclose the years of violation she and her sisters had endured at the hands of their own father.
Her disclosure immediately triggered an investigation and the swift arrest of the alleged perpetrator, setting the wheels of justice in motion for the victims.
Nwanguma said that CSP Zuokumor’s leadership in this case has been hailed as a stellar example of modern policing ideals.
Her engagement with schoolchildren and prioritisation of prevention and protection stands as a refreshing counterpoint to the negative public perception often associated with the Nigeria Police Force.
“CSP Zuokumor’s leadership in this case is nothing short of exemplary. Her community-focused policing approach, especially her engagement with schoolchildren, reflects the best ideals of modern policing,” the writer asserts. “It shows what can be achieved when officers prioritise prevention, protection, and partnership with communities.”
This moment, said Nwanguma, is a rare departure from the frequent reports of brutality, extortion, and corruption that plague the Nigeria Police Force.
The officer’s conduct, in contrast, “demonstrates the possibility of a professional, humane, and accountable police service.”
“There is a strong call for the officer to receive open commendation and institutional recognition. Highlighting and rewarding such exemplary officers is deemed essential not only to encourage others within the Force but also to rebuild public trust and reinforce ethical standards,” said Nwanguma.
Nwanguma emphasised the need for diligent prosecution of the alleged offender.
“If found guilty, he should face appropriate sentencing under the law. Justice for the victims must be swift, firm, and uncompromising.”
The human rights activist also commended the Police Public Relations Officer of the Delta State Police Command, Bright Edafe, for the prompt and transparent communication regarding the case, a vital step in strengthening trust between the police and the communities they serve.
