The Lagos State Police Command has announced the death of Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Matilda Umiah Ngbaronye, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of the Festac Division.
In an official statement released on Saturday, the Command confirmed that CSP Ngbaronye died on Friday, October 24, 2025, at the Mayriamville Medical Centre, Bode Thomas, Surulere, after undergoing surgery.
The Command described her death as a devastating loss, noting that the late officer was widely admired for her professionalism, integrity, and dedication to duty.
“The Lagos State Police Command deeply regrets to announce the passing of the Divisional Police Officer, Festac Division, CSP Matilda Ngbaronye, who sadly passed away after undergoing surgery at Mayriamville Medical Centre, Bode Thomas, Surulere, Lagos State, on Friday, October 24, 2025,” the statement read.
The statement added that CSP Ngbaronye’s death had left a huge void in the command, as she was known for her commitment to service and her humane approach to policing, which helped build trust between the police and residents of Festac and its environs.
“Until her passing, she was known for her diligence, discipline, and commitment to duty. Her friendly disposition and humane approach to policing greatly helped to bridge the gap between the Police and the public she dutifully served. At no time was she found wanting in the discharge of her responsibilities,” the statement added.
Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, expressed deep sorrow over her passing, describing it as a rude shock to the entire Command.
“The news of CSP Ngbaronye’s death came as a painful blow. She was an exemplary officer who served the Command with great passion and integrity,” he said.
Jimoh, on behalf of the officers and men of the Lagos Police Command, extended condolences to the deceased’s family, friends, and colleagues, describing her passing as “an irreparable loss not just to the Police, but to all who knew her.”
He also revealed that he had personally spoken with Ngbaronye’s husband and elder brother, a clergyman, to offer the Command’s sympathies and assurances of support during this difficult period.
“We stand with her family in this moment of grief. The Command will continue to support them and honour her memory as one of our finest officers,” Jimoh said.
CSP Matilda Ngbaronye was one of the respected female senior officers in the Lagos Command. Before her posting as DPO Festac, she had served in several key roles, including at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, Yaba, where she earned a reputation for professionalism and fairness.
Known for her humility and firm leadership style, Ngbaronye was praised by colleagues and community leaders alike for promoting closer cooperation between the Police and residents of Festac. Her leadership reportedly improved security and reduced community tensions in the area.
Her death has since triggered an outpouring of grief from police officers, community leaders, and residents, many of whom have taken to social media to express shock and sorrow.
A senior police officer who worked closely with her described Ngbaronye as “a dedicated and fearless officer who treated everyone with respect.”
“She was the kind of DPO every Command would want — disciplined, firm, and caring. Her death is a big loss to the Force,” the officer said.
The Lagos Police Command said details of her burial arrangements will be announced after consultations with her family.
“May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace,” the statement concluded.
