It was a moment of heartfelt tributes and celebration on Saturday, 18th of October, 2025, as dignitaries, colleagues, and community leaders gathered to honour Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Ishola Olarewaju Olawale, who retired from the Nigeria Police Force after 33 years of distinguished service.
The event, held in Lagos State, drew attendees from across the globe, including Nigerians based in China, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Germany. Among the prominent voices was AIG Adegoke Mustapha Fayoade, the current head of Zone 2 Police Command, who described Ishola as a man of conviction and courage.
Fayoade, a coursemate of Ishola from the 1992 Cadet ASPs set, recalled their early days at the Police College. “Ishola was nicknamed ‘Lecturer’ because of his activism and passion for justice,” he said. “He was always ready to fight for what he believed in, even to the last drop of his blood. His resilience and unwavering commitment to professionalism made him a role model for many officers. He left behind impactful legacies.”
Also present was Oba Olayinka Ishola, the Jokotola of Ido Osun, who praised the retired officer as a worthy son of Ibadan. “Ishola is a chip off the old block,” the monarch said. “He inherited the discipline and cultural values of his ancestors. He never mistook ‘no’ for ‘yes’ or vice versa, just like his late parents.”
Veteran crime journalist Folorunsho Atta shared his first encounter with Ishola in 1996, when the officer was transferred from Benue State to Lagos and posted to Mopol 20. “He was resolute, calm, and always ready for action,” Atta said. “Ishola was never a mechanised anti-riot operative. He brought enthusiasm and integrity to the job, along with discipline, problem-solving skills, and fearless courage.”
The event also featured a musical performance by Fuji maestro Chief Abbas Akande, popularly known as Omo Rapala, who hailed Ishola as “an Ibadan man who fears no one but God.” Akande commended Ishola’s family for their philanthropic spirit and dedication to uplifting the poor and oppressed.
Retired Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Adenike, who served under Ishola at Gowon Police Station 16 years ago, described him as a principled leader. “He detested shabby dressing and idleness among officers,” she said. “He respected his superiors but feared no one except God. He never compromised his duties for financial gain and demanded excellence from everyone under his command.”
The ceremony was graced by leaders of the South-South, Igbo, and Hausa communities in Lagos, underscoring Ishola’s broad impact and the respect he earned across ethnic lines.
