CSP Matilda Ngbaronye’s death shocks the Lagos Police Command, as officers mourn a disciplined, humane DPO known for her professionalism and service

CSP Matilda Ngbaronye, the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Festac Division, has died after 15 years of service, leaving the Lagos State Police Command and residents of Festac in mourning.

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The Command’s spokesperson, Abimbola Adebisi, confirmed the sad development on Saturday, revealing that Ngbaronye passed away on Friday following a surgical procedure at a medical centre in Surulere, Lagos.

In an emotional statement, Adebisi described the late officer as “a truly upright and dedicated officer who served with unwavering professionalism and integrity.”

She added that Ngbaronye was widely admired for her diligence, discipline, and humane approach to policing, which helped strengthen public trust in law enforcement.

“Until her passing, she was known for her friendly disposition and commitment to duty. At no time was she found wanting in the discharge of her responsibilities,” Adebisi said.

The spokesperson noted that the news of her passing came as a rude shock to the command. She further disclosed that Commissioner of Police Jimoh Olohundare had reached out to the late officer’s husband and elder brother, a priest, to convey the command’s condolences and support.

Born with a deep sense of service, CSP Matilda Ngbaronye joined the Nigeria Police Force on April 19, 2010, and steadily rose through the ranks to become one of the most respected female officers in the Lagos Command.

Her career was marked by distinction — from serving as Crime Officer at Dolphin Estate Division, Ikoyi, to working as a Fingerprint Expert at the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti.

She also led the Public Complaints Bureau and was later deployed to the African Union Mission in Somalia, where she earned international commendations for her work as Public Information Officer.

In December 2020, she was appointed Deputy Police Public Relations Officer under then-Commissioner Hakeem Odumosu, and was promoted to Superintendent of Police in February 2021.

By December 2024, she had been elevated by the Police Service Commission to the rank of Chief Superintendent, before her posting as DPO Festac Division.

Her colleagues and friends have continued to pay tribute online. A Facebook user, Abu Yahaya, described her passing as “a great loss,” while broadcaster Moshood Ogunleye said residents and members of the Police Community Relations Committee in Festac were devastated by the news.

The Lagos Police Command has pledged to support her family as they prepare for her final rites, with burial arrangements expected to be announced soon.

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CSP Matilda Ngbaronye’s death marks the end of a luminous career defined by courage, compassion, and service to humanity — a legacy that will long be remembered by the Force and the communities she served.