A Paean for CP Akin Fakorede

By Ibrahim Bakare

It is a well-known truth that trees bearing ripe and delectable fruits attract stones. Just as an orchard of sweet udara cannot be passed without stirring a desire to taste, so too do lives that yield goodness and integrity draw both admiration and envy. While the grateful marvel at God’s wonders and the orchardist’s care, the envious accuse him of selfishness, some even plotting to snuff out his life to seize the fruits.

So it is with men who have painstakingly cultivated their lives to bear succulent fruits—virtues that attract friends and foes alike. Sadists, consumed by envy, devote themselves to tearing down such gems, depriving society of their blessings.

Commissioner of Police (CP) Akin Victor Fakorede is such an udara tree. His principled stance on integrity and his uncompromising fight against corruption within the Nigeria Police Force have made him a target of relentless attacks. From his days leading the defunct SARS in Rivers State to his tenure as head of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Monitoring Unit in Abuja, Fakorede has consistently ruffled the feathers of those with skeletons in their cupboards.

Corruption has fought back fiercely, ensuring that criticisms of the IGP’s policies were directed at him personally. Media campaigns of calumny and baseless allegations have sought to weaken his resolve, with some Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and misled individuals joining the fray.

Yet, amid these trials, voices of truth have risen. Abuja based Berekete Family TV recently commended him for his integrity, giving him a standing ovation in absentia. The anchorman publicly apologised for once believing false reports, acknowledging Fakorede’s unwavering principles and saluting him as a true officer of the state.

“Please, all of us in the studio, let’s give CP Akin Fakorede a standing ovation . . . Akin Fakorede, wherever you are Sir, this is for you Sir. We’re proud of you as a state-owned police officer. May God Almighty continue to bless, protect as well as promote you Sir (Salutes him in absentia).

“And I would want to tender my own unreserved apology because e get wetin I hear about am wey I come dey think say na bad person him be, not knowing that, dat thing dem they talk about principled human beings wey no go allow make you shift them away from the truth, na him be Akin Fakorede principle. Please, I’m sorry, we’re sorry. Thank you,” the anchorman in front of his audience.

His dedication has earned recognition from civil groups, media platforms, and God-fearing individuals. The Integrity Youth Alliance has urged Nigerians to disregard misinformation, affirming that attempts to malign a dedicated officer like Fakorede will not succeed.

Similarly, Friends of Akin Fakorede (FAF) in Port Harcourt condemned those celebrating his redeployment, noting that transfers are routine in public service and emphasising that his new posting prepares him for higher responsibilities, including promotion to Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG).

Over the years, Fakorede has served in strategic positions, gaining recognition as a forensic investigator and operational commander focused on organized crime, armed robbery, and complex criminal networks. As Commander of SARS in Rivers State, he led operations against violent crime and kidnapping syndicates before the unit’s nationwide disbandment.

Like the avocado tree whose fruits grow larger with age, CP Akin Fakorede’s career continues to flourish, his integrity standing tall against corruption and his service a blessing to the nation.

*Ibrahim Bakare is a journalist based in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.