Former Deputy Inspector-General Of Police, Theophilus Akeredolu, Passes Away

The Nigeria Police Force has announced the death of retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Chief Theophilus Adetunji Akeredolu. According to an official statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent Benjamin Hundeyin, Akeredolu passed away on December 9, 2025.

Born on October 25, 1942, Akeredolu dedicated decades of his life to the Nigeria Police Force, rising through the ranks from a civilian lecturer at the Police College, Ikeja, to Deputy Inspector-General of Police. He joined the Force on September 1, 1969, and became a General Duty Police Officer on August 1, 1973.

Akeredolu’s distinguished career included key appointments such as Officer-in-Charge of Investigation at the Criminal Investigation Department in Kwara State, Commissioner of Police in Benue State, Commandant of the Detective College in Enugu, and Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 6, Calabar, and the ‘B’ Department (Operations) at the Force Headquarters, Abuja. He was promoted to DIG on January 1, 2001, serving in charge of Operations until his retirement on March 14, 2002.

A highly educated officer, Akeredolu attended St. John Primary School, Afao, Ikere-Ekiti, and teacher training colleges in Epinmi, Akoko, and Ifako, Lagos. He earned a BA (Hons) in English and a Diploma in Education from the University of Lagos, a Diploma in Law from the University of Ilorin, and a Diploma in Journalism, among other qualifications. He also participated in numerous local and international training programs, including at the Metropolitan Police College, Hendon, London, the Royal Institute of Public Administration, London, the Staff College, Jos, Durham, UK, and the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Jos.

In recognition of his service, Akeredolu received several awards, including the prestigious Commander of the Order of the Niger. Beyond policing, he was a respected traditional and religious leader, holding the title of Chief Aremo of Afao, Ikere-Ekiti, and other notable positions within the African Church community.

He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Yemi Akeredolu, and his children. The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on behalf of the Force, extended condolences to the family, associates, and the people of Ekiti State.

“The Force mourns the loss of a dedicated professional whose legacy of service, leadership, and integrity will remain a source of inspiration to generations of police officers. May his soul rest in perfect peace,” the statement read.