The Ijaw Diaspora grieves the profound loss of one of its most illustrious sons, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Moses Ambakina Jitoboh, whose life epitomized integrity, excellence, and an unwavering dedication to justice. Born on June 1, 1970, and enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force on June 10, 1994, as a cadet assistant superintendent of police, his passing signifies not merely the end of a distinguished career but the extinguishing of a bright light in the fight against systemic inequities.
DIG Moses Ambakina Jitoboh’s remarkable journey was marked by professionalism and merit, yet his boundless potential was thwarted by the persistent shadows of ethnic discrimination and political favoritism. Twice, he was unjustly denied the opportunity to ascend to the esteemed position of Inspector General of Police (IGP), despite being the most qualified under the provisions of the 2020 Police Act. This legislation mandates that any prospective IGP must have at least four years of service remaining, a criterion that Moses Jitoboh met and exceeded with nine years left in service. Yet, in 2021, during the Buhari administration, the role was awarded to Alkali Baba, who had only two years remaining until retirement, an act that flagrantly disregarded merit and the principles of equity.
The injustice was further compounded in 2023, under President Tinubu’s administration, a decision that underscored the divisive grip of tribalism and nepotism. Despite being one of the two most qualified candidates—alongside DIG Frank Mba, who had four years left—Moses Jitoboh, with six years of service remaining, was sidelined. Instead, the appointment went to Kayode Egbetokun, a junior officer with merely one year left until retirement. This act not only undermined meritocracy but also prematurely ended Moses Jitoboh’s illustrious career, truncating a trajectory that should have reached its zenith in 2029.
This somber reality reveals the deep-seated challenges within a nation besieged by the toxic culture of ethnic bias and favoritism—a nation where competence is disregarded and exceptional leaders are marginalized. Moses Jitoboh’s fate is not merely an isolated misfortune but a scathing indictment of a system that consistently elevates mediocrity at the expense of excellence.
As we mourn the loss of this great son of Ijawland, we must pause to consider the colossal cost of such systemic failures. What might Nigeria have achieved under the transformative leadership of DIG Moses Jitoboh, a man whose visionary ideals and deep-seated professionalism could have redefined the police force? How many lives could have been positively impacted by his legacy of fairness and reform?
To the Ijaw people, DIG Moses Ambakina Jitoboh was far more than a decorated officer—he was a symbol of hope, resilience, and what could have been. His untimely demise leaves an indelible scar on the collective soul of the nation, a poignant reminder of the urgent need for inclusivity, justice, and fairness in our national ethos.
As we bid farewell to this towering figure, let us draw strength from his legacy and renew our commitment to building a nation where merit is celebrated and not suppressed. Rest in eternal peace, Moses Ambakina Jitoboh. Your legacy will forever illuminate the path to a just and equitable Nigeria.