Betty Otimenyin has officially assumed office as the 49th Commissioner of Police in Edo State, making history as the first woman to hold the position.
Speaking to the press after inspecting the guard of honor, Otimenyin vowed to focus on significantly reducing crime rates in the state during her tenure.
She emphasized that the police under her leadership would take a strong stance against violence, particularly violence against women, and tackle extortion, aligning with the stance of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
“We will focus on addressing gender-based violence and crimes against women and children, and we will work to strengthen laws that protect them,” she said.
Otimenyin also acknowledged the recent directive from the IGP that police officers should not search individuals’ phones without cause, but she made it clear that when necessary, the police would take the appropriate steps to gather relevant information.
A seasoned officer, Otimenyin joined the Nigeria Police Force as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) in 1992.
She began her career at the Bauchi State Police Command and served in various capacities across states such as Plateau, Kebbi, Rivers, and Edo, before being redeployed to the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
Prior to her new role in Edo, she served as the Commissioner of Police in charge of Administration at the Force Intelligence Department (FID).
