NPF Announces Passing of Former DIG Theophillus Akeredolu
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has formally announced the death of a former Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Chief Theophillus Adetunji Akeredolu, describing him as a highly respected officer whose career reflected commitment, professionalism and integrity.
In an official statement released on Sunday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, the Police confirmed that Akeredolu, a recipient of the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), died on December 9, 2025.
According to the Force, the late senior officer dedicated several decades of his life to the service of the Nigeria Police Force and the country at large.
He joined the Police on September 1, 1969, beginning his career as a civilian lecturer at the Police College, Ikeja, before converting to a General Duty Police Officer in 1973 and being commissioned as a Deputy Superintendent of Police.
The NPF noted that Akeredolu combined policing with strong academic credentials, having obtained qualifications in English, education, law and journalism from institutions within and outside Nigeria.
He also underwent extensive professional training, including courses in London and at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Jos.
During his years in service, Akeredolu occupied several strategic positions across the Force. These included Officer-in-Charge of Investigation at the Criminal Investigation Department, Kwara State Command; Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command; and Commandant of the Detective College, Enugu.
He later served as Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 6, Calabar, and subsequently as AIG in charge of Operations at the Force Headquarters, Abuja.
The statement further disclosed that he was promoted to the rank of Deputy Inspector-General of Police on January 1, 2001, and served as DIG overseeing the Operations Department until his retirement on March 14, 2002.
Reacting to the loss, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, expressed condolences to the family, associates and the people of Ekiti State, noting that the late DIG’s legacy of leadership and service would continue to inspire officers of the Force.
Beyond his policing career, the NPF said Akeredolu was a respected traditional and religious figure, serving as the Chief Aremo of Afao, Ikere-Ekiti.
He is survived by his wife, Yemi Akeredolu, and his children.
