Residents of Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, have celebrated a retiring police traffic controller, DST Oluseun (Bello) Anifat, in recognition of her years of dedicated and selfless service across the state.
The unusual show of appreciation came after residents learned that Anifat, popularly known to some residents as “Mummy Dorcas,” was due to retire from the Nigeria Police Force on Wednesday, September 2, 2026.
Rather than allow the occasion to pass quietly, residents thronged her with musical instruments, turning her final moments in active service into an emotional celebration.
As people took turns to speak about her dedication, efficiency, and commitment to duty, many described her as a worthy ambassador of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
She was also showered with cash gifts by appreciative residents, an act that reportedly left her amazed and overwhelmed.
One of those who paid tribute to the retiring officer was Yemi King, a former neighbour of Anifat, who took to his X account to recount his personal experience with her work ethic and dedication.
King described Anifat as an example of an “hardworking resilient woman,” saying her traffic control was “second to none,” particularly because she was often seen praying while directing traffic.
According to him, when Anifat lived opposite his house, she would wake up early every morning, prepare Dorcas and her siblings for school, including a child with special needs, before heading to work at some of the busiest traffic points in Abeokuta.
He said her commitment to duty remained consistent regardless of the weather, describing her as hardworking, meticulous and always ready to work.
King recalled that Anifat would sometimes return home as late as 7 p.m. and still attend to household chores after a demanding day on the road.
He expressed confidence that retirement would not keep her away from active engagement for long, saying he believed she would eventually find her way back to the streets to keep herself occupied.
While wishing her good health and happiness in retirement, King prayed that she would enjoy her pension for longer than she collected her salary and receive abundant blessings.
The celebration by Abeokuta residents has highlighted the impact that dedicated public servants can make in their communities, with Anifat’s retirement becoming an occasion for those she served to publicly acknowledge her years of commitment.
