By Princely Onyenwe | News Desk
OWERRI— The remains of late Imo State Security Organisation (IMSO) operative, Officer David Ndukauba Onyegbula, who reportedly died while defending communities against criminal attacks in umuguma Owerri West, have been laid to rest in his hometown of Umuagu Umuguma, Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State.
The 44-year-old operative was buried on Saturday amid tributes from government officials, security operatives, local government authorities, and members of the Imo State Security Organisation.
The late officer, according to IMSO officials, died in active service while participating in security operations aimed at protecting residents of Owerri West and other parts of the state from criminal elements.
Leading the IMSO delegation to the burial ceremony, Owerri Zonal Commander, Anthony Ogbonna (popularly known as Igirigi), represented the Commandant of IMSO, CP Opara (Rtd), and the Commander-General of the organisation, Governor Hope Uzodinma.
Ogbonna, who received IMSO operatives alongside Owerri West local government team leaders and council representatives, described the deceased as a gallant officer who remained committed to duty until his death.
According to him, Officer Onyegbula served the organisation with dedication and patriotism, noting that his sacrifice would not be forgotten by the state and the security community.
As part of the burial rites and official honours, the deceased officer’s booth, beret, and belt were handed over to the family as a symbolic disengagement from service.
A Nigerian flag was also presented in honour of the late operative and was received on behalf of the family by the Chairman of Owerri West Local Government Area, Chief Victor Osuigwe (Ikeoha).
Governor Hope Uzodinma was commended for his support to the family and the organisation during the burial. According to IMSO officials, the governor also assured the family of compensation in recognition of the deceased officer’s sacrifice.
However, Chief Security Officer of Aboh Mbaise LGA, Uchenna Amadiokoro, expressed appreciation to God for a peaceful burial ceremony and thanked the governor, the Commissioner for Homeland Security and Vigilante Affairs, the IMSO command leadership, and security stakeholders for their solidarity.
He also commended IMSO operatives across the state for their massive turnout and support to the bereaved family.
The burial attracted the presence of the Orlu and Okigwe Zonal Commanders, local government commanders from the 27 LGAs of the state, and numerous security personnel who paid their final respects to the fallen operative.
The late David Ndukauba Onyegbula was buried in his ancestral home at Umuagu Umuguma, Owerri West, leaving behind his wife, Mrs. David Ndukauba Onyegbula, and four young children.
Security officials described his death as a painful loss to the organisation and called for continued support for families of security personnel who lose their lives in the line of duty.
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