The Police Service Commission (PSC) has removed Mrs. Betty Enekpen Isokpan Otimenyin as the Commissioner of Police for Edo State. This decision follows the tragic killing of 16 Hausa-Fulani travelers in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area, on March 27, 2025.
In response to the incident, the PSC has appointed Monday Agbonika as the new Commissioner of Police for the state. Before this posting, Agbonika served as the Commissioner of Police (Mounted Troop) and Force Equitation Officer at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
Betty Otimenyin had been in charge of Edo State’s police command for only a few months, having taken over from CP Peter Umoru Ozigi after his retirement on January 25, 2025. Her tenure as the 49th Commissioner of Police in Edo State lasted just over two months before the recent security crisis led to her removal.
A statement from the Commission’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani, noted that Agbonika’s appointment followed a posting interview conducted by the PSC Chairman, retired Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Hashimu Argungu. He was tasked with tackling the rising crime rate in Edo State and addressing the circumstances surrounding the recent killings.
“You have to sit up and also work to win the confidence of the people, consult relevant stakeholders and always document every incident and action taken and make sure those who should be informed are properly informed of your actions,” the statement added.
Ani also noted that the new CP assured the commission of his commitment to upholding the law. Agbonika promised to work closely with the Inspector General of Police for guidance and ensure effective policing in the state.
Agbonika brings 32 years of experience in law enforcement, having served in various capacities, including operations, investigations, administration, and police public information. His previous roles include Commissioner of Police Communications (Operations), Deputy Commissioner at Interpol, and DCP Operations for the Ports Authority Police Command in Port Harcourt. He has also held leadership positions in Lagos, Ogun, and Bayelsa States.
