Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of retired Deputy Inspector General of Police, Parry Benjamin Osayande, CFR.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Fred Itua, the Governor described the late Osayande as an elder statesman, patriot, and a symbol of professionalism whose contributions to peace and security in Nigeria would remain indelible.
“Our State has lost a giant, a man of impeccable character whose contributions to the peace and security of Nigeria, and specifically to the history of the defunct Bendel State and our current Edo State, can never be forgotten,” Okpebholo said.
He recalled Osayande’s exploits as Commissioner of Police in the defunct Bendel State during the 1980s, noting that his courage in confronting high-profile criminal gangs became a benchmark for police operational excellence in the country.
The Governor also highlighted Osayande’s service in various reform efforts, describing him as a reformer and intellectual within the Nigeria Police Force whose expertise continued to shape policing even in retirement.
“Even in retirement, DIG Osayande continued to serve as a national asset, lending his immense experience to various presidential and police reform committees. He was a true son of the soil who championed the cause of Edo people in every capacity he served,” the statement added.
Governor Okpebholo extended condolences to the Osayande family, the Benin Kingdom, and the people of Edo State, praying for God’s comfort and strength for the bereaved and eternal rest for the deceased.
