Late Rivers CP Francis Mobolaji Odesanya

The Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN) is mourning the death of the Commissioner of Police in Rivers, Mr Francis Odesanya.

In a statement issued by Chiemele Eze, the union’s Secretary in Lagos, CRAN described the news of Odesanya’s death as shocking and painful.

“Members of CRAN received with shock and dismay the news of the untimely death of the Commissioner of Police, Rivers Command, Mr Francis Odesanya.

“The late Odesanya was a friend to our association for years because he was always willing to assist when necessary,” CRAN said.

It noted that Odesanya’s impeccable record stood him out as one of the finest officers the Force had produced.

“Our association regrets that his death came at a time Nigerians needed him most.

“As stakeholders in the promotion of crime-free society, CRAN members wish to share in the sad moment with the Nigeria Police Force led by Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, and the Odesanya family of Ikenne Town in Ogun.

“We are, however, consoled by the fact that he left an enviable mark and he will continue to be remembered as a fine and brilliant police officer,” the union said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that CP Francis Odesanya died on Tuesday at the age of 56, at Sterling Hospital, Ahmedabad-Gujarat, India, after a brief illness. (NAN)