By: Audrey Raymonda John
In a remarkable show of solidarity, a cross section of the indigenes of Kono in the Western Area of Sierra Leone converged at Police Headquarters on Friday 9th August, 2024, to meet with the Inspector General of Police Mr. William Fayia Sellu, so as to express their appreciation to him, His Excellency the President and the Vice President, who is Chairman of Police Council, for the appointment of their son Mr. Aiah Edward Samadia as the Deputy Inspector General of Police.
Speaking on behalf of the excited team, Chief Sahr Olando Gbekie Kono Tribal Head in Freetown said that as Kono people, they were and still overjoyed and happy about the appointment of their brother and son to the position of Deputy Inspector General of Police.
He was however honest to state that they were not expecting the appointment but that “what God has destined, He would always relay to man to perfect it”. Chief Gbekie appreciated the Inspector General for his relentless efforts in making the case for the appointment of the Deputy Inspector General, and also appreciated His Excellency Brigadier (Rtd.) Dr. Julius Maada Bio and Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh for acceding and approving the recommendation. Ceremoniously handing over the Deputy Inspector General to Mr. William Fayia Sellu, Chief Gbekie said “this is your brother and I am confident that the two of you can work together to deliver on your policing mandate.”
Responding, Mr. Sellu noted that it was a ‘good moment’ to see people who are appreciative of what was done for them. He recalled that his advice has always been that ‘let your work speak for you’ and ‘make yourself relevant’ in whatever capacity you find yourself. He reminisced how he met Mr. Samadia in 1993, describing him as a quiet but hardworking man. The IGP was full of praise for the DIG’s work ethics and his commitment to achieving assigned tasks on time. He expressed confidence and trust over Mr. Samadia’s service delivery record, notably referencing his recent stint in Makeni and how he was able to transform the township and the police in the region. In a relaxed and joking mood, the IGP said that he can now have time to travel out of Freetown, given that he has a dependable deputy, in whom he has so much confidence to hold the forte in his absence.
Mr. Sellu explained the processes involved in the appointment of a Deputy Inspector General and informed the people that he was pleased that they were at Police Headquarters to show appreciation to him and the Government of His Excellency the President for the appointment of their brother. In closing, he said ‘with him [DIG Samadia], we are stronger together’.
Earlier, prayers were said by Reverend Pewa and later the vote of thanks was moved by Madam Sallay Kumba Ajami.
