In every great nation, heroes emerge—men and women who dedicate their lives to safeguarding others and preserving the peace of their homeland. As Nigerians, it is both our duty and moral obligation to acknowledge and celebrate the gallant officers who have gone above and beyond the call of duty.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Abba Kyari, widely regarded as Nigeria’s “Super Cop,” stands out as one of such exceptional officers. Over the years, he has demonstrated rare courage, professionalism, and patriotism in the fight against violent crime and terrorism. His leadership of specialized police units has produced countless breakthroughs in criminal investigations, saving thousands of lives and restoring public confidence in law enforcement.
Below are seven notable achievements—among the many—that highlight his immense contribution to national security and peace:
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1. Arrest of Boko Haram’s Main Suicide Bombing Coordinators
Under Kyari’s leadership, his team successfully tracked and apprehended the masterminds and foot soldiers behind numerous Boko Haram suicide bombings across Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, and other northern states.
The team dismantled five bomb-making factories in Borno and Yobe States and arrested hundreds of insurgents, including key figures involved in the Chibok schoolgirls’ abduction. These operations significantly weakened the terrorist network and reduced the frequency of deadly attacks in the region.
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2. Arrest of the Offa Bank Robbery Perpetrators
DCP Kyari’s team brought to justice the criminals responsible for the Offa bank robbery, the deadliest in Nigeria’s history, which claimed over 30 lives. Through detailed intelligence and swift action, the culprits were apprehended and subsequently sentenced by the High Court in Kwara State. This operation restored confidence in the nation’s ability to deliver justice, even in high-profile cases.
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3. Capture of the Notorious Bank Robber, Godo-Godo
For over a decade, Godo-Godo, one of Nigeria’s most feared robbers, terrorized Lagos and the South-West. DCP Kyari’s relentless pursuit led to his eventual arrest.
The criminal confessed to the murder of over 500 civilians and more than 100 security personnel, mostly police officers. His capture also led to the recovery of 52 AK-47 rifles, GPMGs, and several other arms, bringing long-awaited relief to communities plagued by his gang’s violence.
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4. Rescue of Magajin Garin Daura
When terrorists abducted the Magajin Garin Daura and demanded a $30 million ransom, DCP Kyari’s team launched a high-tech intelligence-led operation. The traditional ruler was rescued safely—without any ransom payment—and 13 of the kidnappers were arrested. This successful rescue operation was celebrated nationwide and demonstrated the Nigerian Police’s top-tier operational capability under Kyari’s leadership.
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5. Arrest of Billionaire Kidnapper, Evans
DCP Kyari led the operation that ended the reign of Evans, Nigeria’s most notorious kidnapper, who extorted millions of dollars in ransom from his victims. His arrest not only restored peace to Lagos and its environs but also showcased the Police’s capacity for complex intelligence and tactical operations.
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6. Ending the Reign of the Notorious ‘Vampire’
The dreaded kidnapper and killer known as Vampire terrorized Imo, Rivers, and parts of the South-East, frequently executing his victims and crippling local businesses. DCP Kyari’s tactical unit tracked and apprehended him after years of pursuit. His capture was celebrated widely across the region, with locals composing songs of praise to honour Kyari’s bravery and service.
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7. Foiling Major Boko Haram Bombing Plots
In 2015, DCP Kyari’s team uncovered and dismantled two major Boko Haram bomb factories in Abuja and Niger State. They arrested the terrorists responsible for the August 2015 Abuja bombing and recovered hundreds of explosives. Although some of these terrorists later escaped during the 2022 Kuje prison attack, their original capture was a testament to Kyari’s team’s tactical brilliance.
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A Call to Action
Given these extraordinary achievements, it is imperative that traditional rulers, community leaders, and prominent citizens across Nigeria—especially from the states and regions where his efforts brought lasting peace (Borno, Lagos, Abuja, Katsina, Niger, Kogi, Imo, Kwara, Kaduna, Ogun, Oyo, Kano, Bauchi, Rivers, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, and others)—stand together in recognition and advocacy.
DCP Abba Kyari’s contributions to Nigeria’s security architecture are too significant to be overlooked. His continued detention serves neither justice nor the nation’s interest. The vast majority of Nigerians who cherish peace, stability, and justice believe it is time for the government to review his case and honour his service to the nation.
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Conclusion
DCP Abba Kyari has served Nigeria with distinction, bravery, and integrity. His track record remains an inspiration to every patriotic officer and a reminder that our nation can only thrive when we recognize and protect those who have risked everything for its peace and unity.
It is time to bring back a man who has given his all for Nigeria.
Dr Godwin Patrick Udemadu.
