Edo State Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of elder statesman and former Deputy Inspector General of Police, Parry Benjamin Osayande.
Okpebholo, in a condolence message issued on Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, extended sympathies to the Osayande family, the Benin Kingdom, and the entire people of Edo State on the loss of one of the state’s most illustrious sons.
The governor 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.
Okpebholo recalled Osayande’s remarkable achievements as Commissioner of Police in Bendel State during the 1980s, when his decisive actions against notorious criminal gangs became a benchmark for policing excellence in Nigeria.
Beyond his operational accomplishments, the governor hailed Osayande as a reformer and intellectual voice within the Nigeria Police Force.
He noted that even after retirement, the late DIG remained a valuable national asset, serving on various presidential and police reform committees where he advocated tirelessly for restructuring the Force to improve service delivery.
The governor prayed for the repose of Osayande’s soul and asked God to grant his family, friends, and associates the strength to bear the loss.
“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 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.
“Parry Osayande was more than a public servant; he was a true son of the soil whose commitment to justice, discipline, and the welfare of Edo people stood out in every role he undertook.
“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,” Okpebholo said.
