Pic: Chief Dr Simon Okeke (in red cap) during the award ceremony
By David Onwuchekwa
The Faculty of Law, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), has honoured former Chairman of the Nigeria Police Service Commission (PSC), Chief Dr. Simon Nsobundu Okeke (Ochendo), with an Award of Excellence in recognition of his outstanding contributions to public service, justice, and institutional reforms in Nigeria.
The colourful ceremony, held at the Hollywood Event Centre, Awka, drew an impressive gathering of legal luminaries, academics, judicial officers, government officials and students, who paid glowing tributes to the elder statesman for his decades of exemplary service to the nation.
Leading the dignitaries was the Vice-Chancellor of COOU, Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha, alongside the Chief Judge of Anambra State, senior members of the Faculty of Law, professors and student leaders.
Presenting the award, the university praised Chief Okeke’s transformational leadership during his tenure as Executive Chairman of the Police Service Commission from 2001 to 2006, describing him as a champion of accountability, professionalism and institutional integrity.
His contributions to Nigeria’s real estate sector and advocacy for equity, justice and good governance were also commended.
Receiving the honour, Chief Okeke thanked the university for the recognition and reaffirmed his commitment to mentoring future leaders and contributing to national development.
In a keynote lecture titled, “The Role of Law and Security Institutions in Protecting Democracy,” the former PSC Chairman warned that Nigeria’s democracy could face grave danger if the judiciary and security institutions fail to uphold independence, professionalism and constitutional responsibility.
He maintained that the survival of democracy depends largely on the integrity of the nation’s institutions, cautioning against actions capable of undermining the rule of law and public confidence in governance.
The award, according to the Faculty of Law, reflects COOU’s commitment to celebrating distinguished Nigerians whose lives embody the ideals of justice, leadership, integrity and selfless service.
Tags: COOU, Simon Okeke, Police Service Commission, Judiciary, Anambra
