By Ogochukwu Isioma
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, says he received with sorrow and a deep sense of loss, the news of the death of a revered elder statesman, DIG Parry Benjamin Osayande, RTD.
Osayande, a former Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, passed away in Benin City, the Edo State capital on Sunday, on the eve of his 89th birthday.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo extended his condolences to the Osayande family, the Benin Kingdom, and the entire people of Edo State on the transition of this distinguished son of the State.
He described the late DIG Osayande as an exemplary icon of professionalism and a patriot whose entire life was dedicated to the service of his community and the nation.
”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,” the Governor stated.
“The name Parry Osayande is synonymous with courage, discipline, and a sterling commitment to justice. His legendary exploits during his tenure as Commissioner of Police in the then Bendel State, especially in confronting the high-profile criminal gangs of the 1980s, remain a benchmark for police operational excellence in our country.”
Governor Okpebholo further noted that DIG Osayande’s influence extended far beyond his operational duties, highlighting his role as a reformer and intellectual within the Nigeria Police Force.
”Even in retirement, DIG Osayande continued to serve as a national asset, lending his immense experience to various presidential and police reform committees, where his dedication to restructuring the police for better service delivery was evident. He was a true son of the soil who championed the cause of Edo people in every capacity he served,” Governor Okpebholo added.
He prayed that God grants the soul of the departed eternal rest and provides the family, friends, and associates the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
He served as Commissioner of Police in Benue and Cross River States before rising to the rank of Deputy Inspector General.
After his retirement, he became Chairman of the Police Service Commission, where he played a key role in administrative reforms within the police.
Born on September 29, 1936, Osayande had a long career in the Nigeria Police Force.
He served as Commissioner of Police in Benue and Cross River States before rising to the rank of Deputy Inspector General.
After his retirement, he became Chairman of the Police Service Commission, where he played a key role in administrative reforms within the police.
