Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has paid a moving tribute to the late Inspector Aderibigbe Abimbola, fondly known as Bimbo, describing her death as a painful loss to the Nigeria Police Force and the nation at large.
In a heartfelt reflection, AIG Disu recalled their time working together during his posting to Ondo State, where he was tasked with reorganising the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
According to him, the assignment required exceptional courage and discipline, as SARS operations involved confronting some of the most dangerous criminals in the country. It was during this period that Inspector Abimbola distinguished herself as an outstanding detective.
“She was a natural,” Disu noted. “You did not have to teach her how to see what others missed. Once you gave Bimbo an assignment, you could rest, confident that the job would be done—and done well.” He described her as a fearless officer with sharp instincts, unwavering commitment to justice, and uncommon courage. Regardless of the risks involved, Inspector Abimbola reportedly never hesitated to step forward, even when hardened officers paused to assess danger.
“We called her our own Iron Lady, and she earned that name every single day,” he said.
Despite her toughness in the field, AIG Disu said Inspector Abimbola possessed a rare warmth that set her apart. Behind the fearless operative was a woman with a welcoming smile and genuine kindness, even after enduring intense and traumatic operations. “She was iron on the inside and gold on the outside,” he added.
As the only woman on her team, Inspector Abimbola never sought special privileges. She worked across units, travelled extensively, slept in cramped vehicles and on hard benches, and spent days in the field alongside her male colleagues—often leading operations rather than following.
According to Disu, her contributions were central to the successes recorded by the SARS team in Ondo State, noting that her impact went far beyond sentiment. “She was the quiet engine that powered everything around her,” he stated.
The senior police officer also recounted a critical kidnapping case in Oyo State after his transfer, when investigations had stalled under intense pressure. In a decisive move, he called on Inspector Abimbola, who reportedly helped crack the case within 24 hours. “Where everyone else saw a wall, Bimbo found a door,” he said.
Lamenting her passing, AIG Disu described Inspector Abimbola as a rare gem whose dedication, sacrifice, and professionalism mirrored the finest fictional detectives—yet she was real, committed, and deeply devoted to service. “She bled for this job. She gave up comfort and rest so others could sleep in peace,” he said.
Beyond her operational achievements, Disu emphasized that Inspector Abimbola paved the way for women in uniform, proving that excellence, bravery, and impact know no gender. “She did not just close cases; she opened a path for every woman who will come after her,” he concluded.
Inspector Aderibigbe Abimbola is remembered as a fearless officer, a trailblazer, and a symbol of dedication to justice. Her legacy, AIG Disu said, will remain louder than any siren ever sounded in her honour. “Rest now, Iron Lady. The force is lesser without you, but your legacy will never fade.”
