By Muhammad Mamman
The Lagos State Police Command has announced, with deep sorrow, the passing of Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Matilda Ngbaronye, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of the Festac Division.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Command described CSP Ngbaronye’s death as a “great loss” not only to the Nigeria Police Force but also to the Festac community, where she was widely respected for her professionalism, discipline and compassion.
The statement, signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, expressed the Command’s heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues, noting that CSP Ngbaronye served with distinction until her final days.
“CSP Matilda Ngbaronye was a dedicated officer who gave her all to the service of her country. Her passing is a painful blow to the Lagos State Police Command and the Nigeria Police Force at large,” the statement read.
While details surrounding her death remain undisclosed, the Command urged members of the public to respect the family’s privacy as they mourn their loss.
Tributes have continued to pour in from colleagues and community members who described her as a trailblazer and an exemplary female officer who mentored many within the Force.
“She was firm but fair, a true professional who earned the admiration of her subordinates and the trust of her community,” said one senior police officer.
CSP Ngbaronye, who had served in several divisions across Lagos before her posting to Festac, was known for her hands-on leadership style, commitment to crime prevention, and efforts to strengthen police-community relations.
The Lagos State Police Command said funeral arrangements will be announced in due course, as officers across the state don black armbands in her honour.
Her passing marks the end of an era for the Festac Division, where she was regarded as both a strong leader and a compassionate guardian of public safety.
