ENUGU, NIGERIA –A wave of admiration and commendation swept through Enugu as the Advocate for Good Governance in Nigeria (AFGIN), a Non-Governmental Organization based in Ikeja, Lagos, conferred the Icon of Hope to Humanity Award on Superintendent of Police (SP) Chuks Odum, Commander of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad in Enugu State.
The prestigious award ceremony, which held at the squad’s office in Enugu, also served as a rallying call for the Nigeria Police Force to recognize SP Odum’s exceptional leadership and gallant service with a special promotion.
Speaking during the event, the Director of Programs at AFGIN, Dr. Ojomah Monday, who represented the Executive Director, Ambassador Dr. Awalu Malik, praised SP Odum as a rare breed of law enforcement officer whose dedication to duty has transformed the security landscape in Enugu State.
“In Supol Chuks Odum, we find courage under pressure, integrity in the face of danger, and compassion in the line of duty. He exemplifies what it means to protect and serve with honor,” Dr. Monday said in his speech.
He cited numerous achievements under SP Odum’s command, including:
- The arrest and prosecution of high-profile kidnapping syndicates;
- The safe rescue of numerous kidnapped victims;
- Reinforcement of public confidence in law enforcement;
- Promotion of community-based policing strategies that strengthen trust between citizens and security agents.
The event drew attendance from civil society leaders, police officials, community stakeholders, and members of the media. Several invited guests took turns to deliver goodwill messages, each echoing AFGIN’s call for official recognition of SP Odum’s heroic efforts.
Mrs. Chinyere Uba, Chairperson of the Enugu State Women for Peace Initiative, described SP Odum as “a shield for the vulnerable” and urged the police authorities to let his story inspire reforms in the security sector.
“His leadership has brought relief to mothers and children in communities that were once under siege. He is not just an officer; he is a lifeline,” she said.
Comrade Austin Ude, National Coordinator of Youth Network for Accountability, remarked:
“In a system where commitment is often overlooked, SP Odum’s work stands as a shining example. A special promotion for him will send a strong message that excellence is noticed and rewarded.”
Barr. Eugene Nwankwo, a legal practitioner and human rights advocate, praised SP Odum’s respect for due process and rule of law.
“What stands out is not just his operational success, but his respect for human rights in a volatile terrain. He is restoring dignity to policing,” Barr. Nwankwo noted.
Visibly moved by the honour, SP Chuks Odum expressed deep gratitude to AFGIN and the guests for the recognition. In his heartfelt response, he dedicated the award to his team and the victims of kidnapping whose stories fuel his passion for justice.
“I am truly humbled by this recognition,” SP Odum said. “But I stand here not as one man, but as the face of a team that works day and night under intense pressure and risk. Every rescue mission, every arrest, is a product of collective bravery.”
He emphasized that the award would serve as renewed motivation for him and his squad.
“To know that our sacrifices are seen and appreciated means a lot. We will not relent. We will keep pressing forward until Enugu and every part of Nigeria becomes safe for all,” he added.
SP Odum also joined AFGIN in calling for more support to security agencies, particularly in the area of logistics, personnel welfare, and community cooperation.
In closing, AFGIN reiterated its appeal to the Inspector General of Police and the Police Service Commission to award SP Odum and his team a special promotion in recognition of their outstanding service.
“We must reward gallantry. SP Odum is a beacon of what law enforcement should be in Nigeria,” Dr. Ojomah affirmed.
The event concluded with a symbolic presentation of the Icon of Hope to Humanity Award to SP Odum, amidst applause, handshakes, and renewed pledges to uphold justice, service, and human dignity.
Fresh Facts Magazine will continue to spotlight frontline heroes and advocate for a system where public service is rewarded, and the safety of every Nigerian remains paramount.
