*In Memoriam : Commissioner of Police Adedamola Waheed Ayilara – A Tribute Sponsored by Temitope Zainul-Abedeen Tijani (TZAT)”*
By Alhaji Arems
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Commissioner of Police (CP) Adedamola Waheed Ayilara, who passed away on August 29, 2024, at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) in Ikeja. CP Ayilara, who was the Commissioner of Police for Akwa Ibom State, succumbed to complications shortly after a successful prostate cancer surgery performed on August 28, 2024.
Born in Lagos in the 1960s and hailing from the Ajayi Compound in Iaye Area of Ogun State, CP Ayilara received his early education in Lagos before pursuing a distinguished academic path. He earned his first degree in Law from the University of Ibadan, followed by a Master’s Degree in Law from the University of Lagos, and was called to the Nigerian Bar after attending the Nigerian Law School.
Commissioner Ayilara joined the Nigeria Police Force on May 18, 1992, as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent and was a member of Course 3. Throughout his illustrious career, he undertook various training courses both locally and internationally, including Leadership and Citizenship Training, Advanced Detective Courses, and Commanding Officer Courses at various Police Mobile Force Training Colleges across Nigeria. His international training included VIP Protection with Blackwater U.S.A. and Foreign Mission Development/Management in Italy. His commitment to professional development extended to participating in various FBI Trainings and senior staff courses.
Before his elevation to Commissioner of Police on December 27, 2023, CP Ayilara held numerous significant positions within the force, including Deputy Commissioner of Police at the State C.I.D. Panti, Lagos, and Acting Commissioner of Police at Lagos Command. On February 1, 2024, he was appointed the 32nd Commissioner of Police for Akwa Ibom State Command, where he served with dedication until his untimely death.
In addition to his professional achievements, CP Ayilara was deeply involved in various professional associations, including the International Association of Chiefs of Police. His dedication to service was not only evident in his police career but also in his active membership with the Nasrul-Lahi-L-Fatih Society (NASFAT), where he served as Security Secretary from 2017 to 2021. His leadership and contributions to the NASFAT community were exemplary, and he will be remembered for his unwavering commitment and participative style.
This publication is sponsored by Temitope Zainul-Abedeen Tijani (TZAT), whose support in honoring the legacy of CP Ayilara is greatly appreciated.
CP Ayilara’s passing leaves a profound void in both the police force and the community. He is survived by his wife and children, who have lost a devoted husband and father. The NASFAT global community and the nation mourn the loss of a committed leader and devout Muslim whose passion for service and exemplary character will be eternally remembered.
May Allah SWT grant him Aljanah Fridaus and comfort his family and all who knew him during this difficult time.
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