By Omooba Olumuyiwa Adejobi
Some people serve quietly, consistently and selflessly, yet their impact speaks loudly. DST Anifa Bello Abiodun is one such person. For many years, she has been a familiar and respected face in traffic management in Abeokuta, Ogun State, where she distinguished herself through commitment, discipline, humility and a great sense of responsibility.
Her dedication to duty has not gone unnoticed. Over the years, various government agencies, associations, groups and individuals have recognized, celebrated and honoured her for her exceptional service. Her story is one of a public officer who remained committed to her responsibilities and maintained her dignity even in the face of provocation.
One particular incident remains a remarkable testimony to her character. During the tenure of the late IGP Solomon Arase, Anifa was on traffic duty at the NNPC Junction in Abeokuta when a senior police officer (CSP-name withheld) confronted her for not allowing him to pass through his lane from the Okemosan axis. Anifa, in her usual manner, calmly explained that she was unaware that the officer was on the queue.
Unfortunately, the officer later parked his vehicle at a distance, changed into mufti and returned to that spot to slap Anifa. The incident was witnessed by prominent Ogun indigenes and journalists who were returning from an assignment at the Police Command Headquarters, Eleweran, Abeokuta. The matter was subsequently escalated to the office of the then Inspector-General of Police, late IGP Solomon Arase, who ordered an investigation. The officer was queried and eventually sanctioned with a reduction in rank.
The incident generated considerable public reaction and condemnation, particularly because Anifa was widely regarded as undeserving of such treatment. Her conduct throughout the episode further demonstrated the temperament and discipline for which she had become known.
During my time as the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in Ogun State, I also had the opportunity to observe Anifa’s conduct for almost a decade. She never misbehaved or maltreated members of the public, even when faced with serious provocation. She consistently displayed humility, decency, patience and a strong sense of duty.
Anifa represents the kind of public servant and Police officer that society should celebrate. Her years of service, patriotism and commitment to traffic management have made her a role model and inspiration to others. Retirement may mark the end of her active service, but it should not mark the end of her relevance. I strongly believe that her experience, wisdom and commitment will continue to be valuable to Ogun State and the wider society.
I therefore appeal to the government and good people of Ogun State to continue to recognise, celebrate and honour DST Anifa Bello Abiodun for her selfless service to the state and humanity.
Anifa, I commend you. I celebrate you. I pray that Almighty God will continue to be with you, preserve you and grant you many more years of good health and fulfilment.
Congratulations on your retirement. The Nigeria Police Force and the good people of Ogun State will certainly miss you. You have indeed made the NPF and your gender proud.
I am optimistic that Ogun State will still find ways to benefit from your wealth of experience and dedication.
Long life and prosperity.
Ire oo!
Omooba Olumuyiwa Adejobi, fnipr,
Public Relations Practitioner and Fellow of the NIPR,
Princemoye@gmail.com,
08037168147
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