Imo Community Leaders Demand Promotion of Crime-Fighting Police Officer as Niger Delta Ministry Honours Him
By Kelechi Ugo
The Imo State Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs and Intelligence has honoured a crime-fighting police officer, Inspector Chika Vincent Okebata, popularly known as “GKB” (Kill-and-Bury), with an Award of Excellence in recognition of his outstanding efforts in combating crime and strengthening security in the Niger Delta areas of the state.
The award presentation took place on Tuesday, March 11, 2026, at the Ministry’s Block in the Imo State Secretariat Complex, Owerri, and was attended by security stakeholders, community leaders and government officials who gathered to celebrate the officer’s contributions to public safety.
Presenting the award, the Commissioner for the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs and Intelligence, Prince Dr. Henry Uzor Okafor, commended Inspector Okebata for his dedication and courage in tackling criminal activities across the Niger Delta axis of the State.
According to the Commissioner, the officer’s consistent operations have helped curb criminality in the oil-producing communities of Ohaji/Egbema, Oguta and Oru-West, as well as neighbouring local government areas.
Dr. Okafor described Okebata as a committed and courageous security operative whose vigilance and professionalism have strengthened ongoing efforts to restore peace in the region.
“Inspector Okebata has shown remarkable commitment in keeping criminals and hoodlums away from our communities. His efforts have greatly enhanced security within the oil-producing areas of Imo State,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of Oil and Gas Stakeholders in Imo State, Chief Cajethan Adimigbo, applauded the officer for his unwavering dedication to protecting lives and property.
Similarly, the traditional ruler of Agwa Community in Oguta Local Government Area described the police officer as a disciplined and dependable security operative whose work has significantly improved safety in the area.
Inspector Okebata has gained wide recognition for his role in combating criminal networks and dismantling criminal hideouts in parts of the state where security challenges have persisted.
In his remarks, the honoured officer expressed gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed his commitment to the fight against insecurity.
He noted that despite personal losses suffered in the line of duty, he remains resolute in his mission to protect lives and property.
“I joined the police force as a young man and since then I have never relented in the fight against insecurity in Imo State and beyond,” he said.
“In the course of this job, I have lost my houses, my parents and some of my siblings to the hands of criminals, but I have remained focused and committed to serving the people.”
He further assured residents of Imo State and Nigerians at large of his continued determination to combat crime and maintain peace.
Inspector Okebata also advised youths involved in criminal activities to abandon social vices and instead embrace skills acquisition and productive ventures that can improve their lives.
Meanwhile, several community leaders and stakeholders from the oil-producing communities who spoke with journalists at the event described the honour as well deserved.
They called on the Police Service Commission (PSC) to consider granting Inspector Okebata an immediate double promotion, citing his courage, professionalism and the impact of his security operations on the safety and economic activities within the affected communities.
According to the stakeholders, recognising and rewarding dedicated officers like Okebata would serve as motivation for other security personnel to remain committed to protecting lives and property across the state.
