The Nigeria Police Force has announced the passing of former Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Chief Theophilus Adetunji Akeredolu, who died on December 9, 2025. The announcement was made in a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent Benjamin Hundeyin, on Sunday.
Born on October 25, 1942, Akeredolu devoted decades of his life to the service of the Nigeria Police Force and the nation. He enlisted on September 1, 1969, initially serving as a civilian lecturer at the Police College, Ikeja, before converting to a General Duty Police Officer on August 1, 1973. He rose through the ranks, holding key positions including Officer-in-Charge of Investigation at the Criminal Investigation Department in Kwara State, Commissioner of Police in Benue State, Commandant of the Detective College in Enugu, and Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 6, Calabar, and ‘B’ Department (Operations) at Force Headquarters in Abuja.
Promoted to Deputy Inspector-General of Police on January 1, 2001, he served as DIG in charge of Operations until his retirement on March 14, 2002. Akeredolu underwent extensive local and international training, including programs at the Metropolitan Police College, Hendon, London; the Royal Institute of Public Administration, London; the Staff College, Jos; Durham, Great Britain; and the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Jos.
Akeredolu was widely recognized for his service and was awarded the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON). Beyond policing, he served as a respected traditional and religious leader, holding the title of Chief Aremo of Afao, Ikere-Ekiti, and notable positions within the African Church community in Abuja and Ekiti State.
He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Yemi Akeredolu, and their children. The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, extended condolences to the family, associates, and the people of Ekiti State, describing the late DIG as a dedicated professional whose legacy of service, leadership, and integrity will continue to inspire generations of police officers.
“May his soul rest in perfect peace,” the statement concluded.