Breaking Barriers: Edo State’s First Female Police Commissioner Takes Charge
On January 27, 2025, Betty Enekpen-Otimeyin assumed her role as the first female Commissioner of Police in Edo State, marking a significant milestone in the state’s law enforcement history. She succeeds Umoru Ozigi, who retired upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60.
In her inaugural address, Commissioner Enekpen-Otimeyin emphasized her commitment to reducing crime rates and eradicating corruption within the force. She issued a stern warning to officers against engaging in extortion and the unauthorized searching of citizens’ mobile phones, aligning with directives from the Inspector-General of Police. She stated, “The IG has said we don’t need to check phones, but when there are issues that relate to checking information, we can’t stop that.”
With a distinguished career that began in 1992, Enekpen-Otimeyin has served in various capacities across multiple states, including Bauchi, Plateau, and Edo. Her extensive experience encompasses roles such as Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Assistant Commissioner in Kebbi State, and Area Commander in Rivers and Imo States. Prior to her current appointment, she was the Commissioner of Police in the Force Intelligence Department at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
Beyond her focus on crime reduction and internal discipline, Commissioner Enekpen-Otimeyin has expressed a strong dedication to addressing gender-based violence. She plans to enforce laws protecting women and children, emphasizing the importance of the Child Rights Act in her initiatives.