BY VALERIE ITIE/PEACE AIKHUERE-CALEB/ENDURANCE IKANONE
In a grand celebration filled with appreciation and nostalgia, the people of Sapele and surrounding communities gathered to honour CSP Harrison Eche at his retirement party.
After 35 years of service, CSP Eche, fondly called a “super cop” by the locals, was celebrated by the high and mighty, who came together to recognize the peace and security he brought to the area.
The event, which was held at the Sapele Athletic Club, was a significant gathering of dignitaries, community leaders, friends, and family, all united in admiration for a man who had devoted his life to the safety and progress of his community.
The Chairman of the occasion, Chief Stephen Osakwe, a respected leader in the community, spoke highly of CSP Eche’s commitment to duty, highlighting his impact on reducing crime in Sapele. “Harrison Eche was not just a DPO but a guardian to this community. He understood our fears and went to great lengths to ensure that we could live in peace. His dedication has left a legacy that will be remembered for generations,” Osakwe remarked, drawing applause from the audience. “Today, we celebrate a man who became part of our lives, our stories, and our strength as a community.”
Chief Osakwe was joined by another prominent figure, Mr Augustine Ayemidejor, who praised CSP Eche’s humility and kindness. “He is a nice man and humble, one of a kind,” Ayemidejor shared. His words resonated with many who knew Harrison personally. “Even in his role as a law enforcement officer, he treated everyone with respect. The respect he showed others is a large part of why he earned the trust and love of this community. It is a rare quality in our world today, and we are grateful to have experienced it through him.”
In addition to the dignitaries, several former and current officials were present to recognize CSP Eche’s accomplishments. The former Chairman of Sapele Local Government Council, Hon Eugene Inoaghan, recalled the challenging periods the town faced before CSP Eche’s posting. “Sapele had its struggles with insecurity and unrest,” Inoaghan explained. “But when CSP Eche took charge, he brought with him a vision of peace. He knew the people, he knew the terrain, and he knew how to bring everyone together. His work went beyond policing; he united this community under a banner of hope.”
Chief Paulinus Akpeki also expressed his admiration, describing CSP Eche as a “pillar of peace” in Sapele. “Eche did not just serve as DPO; he served as a bridge between the people and the police.
‘’He earned our trust through his actions, and because of him, we are no longer afraid to reach out to the police when we need help. He has brought an era of community policing that works hand in hand with the people,” Akpeki added, crediting Eche with creating an environment of mutual respect.
ACP Innocent Umerie of Sapele Area Command spoke of the exceptional leadership qualities Eche displayed throughout his career. “CSP Eche is the kind of leader we need more in this country,” Umerie noted.
“He led by example, always first on the scene, ensuring his officers followed suit. We are deeply grateful to him, not only as a community but as a command, for the standard he set for younger officers to follow.”
One of the most heartfelt tributes came from Captain Moses Abeke, (rtd). Reflecting on their shared experiences, Captain Abeke described CSP Eche as more than a colleague, but a brother. “Eche is not just a great cop, he’s a great man,” Abeke said. “I am blessed to call him a friend. His commitment and sacrifice are things I have witnessed first-hand, and I am proud to stand here today to celebrate him.”
Community members who attended the event shared personal stories of how CSP Eche’s leadership changed their lives. A local trader, Mrs. Joy Ibekwe, recounted how Eche helped protect her shop from recurring thefts. “He made sure I felt safe to conduct my business. He didn’t treat me differently because I was a small trader. To him, we were all part of the community he was protecting,” Ibekwe said, visibly emotional.
The ceremony ended with a formal presentation of a plaque and gifts to CSP Eche as a token of the community’s gratitude.
Eche, in his response, expressed deep appreciation to the community, promising that his retirement would not stop him from continuing to contribute to its welfare. “I am honoured and humbled by this outpouring of love. I thank you all, and I promise to always support this community,” he stated.
