Police Officers Hold Candlelight Procession in Honour of Late CSP Matilda Ngbaronye

Police Officers Hold Candlelight Procession in Honour of Late CSP Matilda Ngbaronye

By Oki O. Samson

Grief, disbelief, and heartfelt tributes filled the air as officers of Police Course 1, 2010, gathered at the Lagos State Police Command to mourn one of their own, the late Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of FESTAC Division, CSP Matilda Umiah Ngbaronye, who passed away on Friday, October 24, 2025, following complications from surgery.

The officers, who enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force alongside her on April 10, 2010, described the late Ngbaronye as a vibrant, courageous, and dedicated officer whose life and service left a lasting impact on colleagues and the public.

Dressed in black T-shirts bearing her portrait and the inscription “Rest On Hero”, the grieving officers held a solemn candlelight procession that began at the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters and ended at the Police College, Ikeja — the institution where their policing journey began 15 years ago.

CSP Ngbaronye, until her passing, was widely admired for her professionalism and commitment. She had previously served as Deputy Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Lagos Command, DPO of Ilupeju and Iponri divisions, forensic officer at the State CID, Panti, and secretary to former Lagos Commissioner of Police, AIG Hakeem Odumosu (retd).

Her colleagues remembered her as a role model and a unifying force in the Police Force — one whose humane approach to policing helped strengthen community trust.

Speaking on behalf of the coursemates, CSP Umma Tunni Ayuba, Zonal PPRO, Zone 2 Command, Onikan, expressed deep sorrow and called for public empathy toward police officers who, she noted, are equally human and share in society’s joys and pains.

“Matilda died untimely — at the peak of her career,” she said. “She was lively, efficient, and always dependable. We started the procession from the Command because FESTAC Division was her last posting, and we ended here at the College because this place holds our fondest memories. She was not just a colleague but a sister and helper to many.”

Other coursemates also paid glowing tributes.

CSP Ayo Elijah, DPO of Mancenter, described her as “a cheerful soul who left lasting footprints.”

“It still feels strange to use ‘was’ when referring to her,” he said. “We rejoice in the fact that she lived a life of impact.”

CSP Uche Obiora recalled their close bond and shared that Matilda once aspired to become Nigeria’s first female Inspector-General of Police.

“She lived her life to the fullest,” he said.

CSP Aliyu, DPO of Oko-Oba Division, reflected on life’s fragility, adding that “Matilda’s passing reminds us that nothing in life is permanent.”

For CSP Lateef Adisa, the loss was particularly painful as he had spoken with her just days before her death.

“She mentioned her child was sick and couldn’t travel as planned. We worked closely together at State CID, Panti. May God forgive her shortcomings and comfort us all,” he said.

CSP Emeka Jude Umeozor remembered her for her mentorship and professionalism.

“She prepared me for success when I succeeded her as Secretary to CP Lagos Command and later as DPO of Ilupeju. She was a true leader,” he said.

Though her life ended too soon, CSP Matilda Ngbaronye will be remembered as a gallant officer who served with distinction, compassion, and courage. Her legacy, her colleagues affirmed, will continue to inspire officers across the Nigeria Police Force.