The Nigeria Police Force is mourning the passing of Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Ekene Nwosu, a senior officer described by colleagues as courageous, professional, and deeply committed to his duties until his final breath.
CSP Nwosu, who passed away recently after a brief illness in Ekiti State, was remembered by fellow officers as a model law enforcement agent who carried out his duties within the confines of the law and the Nigeria Police Act. He was serving as Officer in Charge (OC) Homicide in Ekiti before his death, and had previously served with distinction as OC Anti-Robbery in Akwa Ibom State.
“CSP Nwosu was diligent and fearless in his work. He only pursued criminals—those making life difficult for law-abiding citizens,” said one senior officer in Ekiti, speaking on condition of anonymity. “His record, especially in the handling of murder and related cases, was outstanding.”
Following his death, CSP Nwosu has come under social media attack, primarily from users aligned with activist lawyer Inibehe Effiong, who accused the officer of misconduct during his tenure in Akwa Ibom. The allegations, however, have sparked outrage among police colleagues and supporters of the late officer.
“They do not know this man,” said another officer. “Those making noise online, especially under Effiong’s post, are mostly hired content creators sitting in Lagos. They’ve never interacted with him, nor do they understand how the police work.”
Officers in both Ekiti and Akwa Ibom dismissed the accusations as baseless and malicious, arguing that if CSP Nwosu had committed any wrongdoing during his career, the police hierarchy—especially under a democratic dispensation—would have sanctioned him accordingly.
“They had every opportunity to bring their grievances before the Police Service Commission or Force Headquarters while he was alive. They never did. Instead, they waited until he passed away to smear his name,” one officer said.
In Akwa Ibom, CSP Nwosu was credited with significantly improving security during his time as OC Anti-Robbery. His work, officers say, contributed to a safer environment, allowing residents to live with less fear of violent crime.
“The state government knew his worth. He cleaned up major criminal hotspots, and many residents could finally sleep with both eyes closed,” the officer added.
Responding to social media backlash, police personnel emphasized that the vocal critics online do not represent the views of the majority. “Eighty social media users do not speak for a state of over seven million people. The narrative being pushed by paid bloggers does not reflect the reality on the ground.”
As investigations continue into the claims made against the late CSP, his colleagues and those familiar with his service are calling for fairness and respect, especially for a man they say gave his life to the service of his country.