The Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigations Department (FCID) Annex, Alagbon, Lagos State, AIG Margaret Ochalla, has received commendation for her intervention in the case of an alleged police assault involving a Lagos resident, Olawale Iyanda.
AIG Ochalla was praised for donating N200,000 to cover Mr. Iyanda’s medical expenses, following reports that he was injured during an encounter with a team of policemen, said to have been led by an officer identified as Inspector Kalu.
The gesture came after Iyanda, accompanied by his father and their lawyer, Barrister Olayinka Sanni, visited the AIG at her office to express gratitude for what they described as her professional and compassionate handling of the incident.
The AIG reportedly assured the family of a fair investigation and disciplinary measures where appropriate. According to sources familiar with the matter, the AIG also directed the Commissioner of Police, X-Squad, to investigate complaints related to a police operation in the Egbeda area of Lagos State, which took place two weekends ago.
The investigation led to the questioning of the officer involved and a Point-of-Sale (POS) operator reportedly connected to the case. During initial inquiries, it was revealed that Iyanda had previously been the subject of community complaints, though no official charges were brought against him.
As part of efforts to ensure transparency and fairness, AIG Ochalla facilitated the return of recovered funds to the complainant and further demonstrated personal concern by offsetting his hospital bills.
Barrister Sanni, during the visit, described the AIG as “a true reformist who leads with integrity,” and urged other public officials to emulate her approach to leadership and accountability.
Iyanda also expressed his appreciation, stating that the experience had changed his perception of the police.
“I was really traumatised, but my two meetings with Madam (AIG Ochalla) have changed my view about the police,” he said.
His father added his voice, thanking the AIG not only for ensuring his son’s release but also for taking swift action to address the officers’ conduct.