Akwa Ibom Command distributes welfare cheques to 33 bereaved families
Uyo, Akwa Ibom State – The Akwa Ibom State Police Command distributed N37.28 million to 33 families of officers who died in service on Tuesday. Commissioner of Police Baba Azare presented the welfare cheques at Command Headquarters in Ikot Akpanabia under the IGP Family Welfare and Group Life Assurance Schemes.
Payment Distribution Details
Each family received varying amounts based on the deceased officer’s rank and years of service. The payments ranged from hundreds of thousands to over one million naira per family.
“The cheques will help the families tremendously and serve as a reminder that even if their loved ones are no longer with them, the sacrifices they made can never be forgotten,” Azare said during the ceremony.
The welfare distribution follows standard Nigeria Police Force protocol for compensating families of officers killed in the line of duty.
IGP Welfare Initiative
Inspector General Olukayode Egbetokun authorized the payments through the Group Life Assurance Schemes, which provide financial support to police families after losing their breadwinners.
The scheme covers officers who die during active service, including those killed in combat operations, accidents, or other duty-related incidents.
“We acknowledge the deep sense of concern of the Inspector General of Police, especially the wellbeing of the officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force,” Azare stated.
Family Support and Usage
Several beneficiary families indicated they would use the funds for children’s education and small business investments. The payments often determine whether police children can continue schooling after losing their parents.
Azare advised families to manage the financial support carefully, noting these payments may be the primary assistance they receive from the Force.
The Akwa Ibom Police Command confirmed welfare obligations continue beyond this distribution, though resource constraints limit additional support.
Ceremony Conclusion
The presentation ceremony included a moment of silence for the fallen officers. Officials read the names of deceased personnel as their families collected the welfare payments.
The event took place at the Command Headquarters with senior police officers and family representatives attending.
By Abiodun Labi
