Agbonika Takes Charge As AIG Zone 5, Seeks Public Support In Fight Against Crime

by MIKE OSAROGIAGBON

Nigeria’s Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), Monday Agbonika, has assumed office as the new AIG of Zone 5 Headquarters, Benin City, with responsibility for Edo and Delta States.

Agbonika succeeds AIG Salman-Dogo Garba, who retired from the Nigeria Police Force on July 22, 2026.

The Zonal Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tijani A. Momoh, disclosed this in a statement, noting that the new AIG assumed duty today July 29, 2026.

He further stated that AIG Agbonika previously served as Commissioner of Police in Edo State prior to his elevation to the rank of Assistant Inspector-General of Police.

The new AIG, a seasoned officer with over three decades of policing experience, has held several strategic positions in investigations, operations, administration and international peacekeeping. He holds degrees in Psychology, Security and Strategic Studies, and is pursuing a PhD in Peace and Conflict Studies.

In the statement, SP Tijani noted Agbonika’s call on residents of Edo and Delta states to support the Police with timely and credible information to strengthen the fight against crime and criminality across the Zone.

He further assured that the Zone under his leadership would prioritize intelligence-led policing, community engagement, and swift response to security threats, while strengthening collaboration with sister security agencies and local stakeholders to ensure lasting peace and safety across both states.