The Nigeria Police Force has announced the death of Retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Chief Gasali Dewale Lawal, described his passing as the end of an era marked by exemplary leadership, professionalism, and unwavering service to national peace and security.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Police described the late DIG Lawal as a distinguished statesman and consummate police officer whose 33-year career left an indelible mark on policing in Nigeria.
Born with a strong passion for learning and public service, Lawal earned a Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree from the University of Ife in 1973 and was a member of the pioneer National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) batch. He began his professional life as a lecturer with the Federal Ministry of Education before joining the Nigeria Police Force in 1976 as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police, following training at the Police Staff College, Bukuru, Jos.
Throughout his long and distinguished career, DIG Lawal served in various strategic commands across the country. He was Divisional Police Officer in several Lagos divisions, Area Commander in Oyo State, Deputy Commissioner of Police, and Commissioner of Police at the then Force Headquarters, Lagos. He also served as Commissioner of Police in Kwara and Kaduna States between 1999 and 2003.
He was later elevated to Assistant Inspector-General of Police, overseeing Zones 5, 8, 2, and 4, before attaining the rank of Deputy Inspector-General of Police, where he headed the ‘C’ Department (Works) at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, from which he retired.
A strong advocate of capacity building and strategic leadership, the late DIG Lawal attended several professional courses and international conferences, including programmes in the United Kingdom, Egypt, and Thailand, as well as the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, where he earned the prestigious Member of the National Institute (mni).
In recognition of his outstanding service, he received several honours, including the Nigeria Police Medal (NPM), the Security Watch Best Police AIG (South-West) Award in 2004, and the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).
The Police noted that DIG Lawal was widely respected for his calm disposition, inclusive leadership style, and commitment to dialogue, which helped de-escalate tensions and promote peace in several communities. Beyond policing, he was an active member of the Ikirun Dynamic Club and a committed advocate for peace and development in the Ifelodun Community.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on behalf of officers and men of the Force, extended heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and associates of the late senior officer, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul and honouring his enduring legacy of integrity and selfless service.
