Kayode Ueneroro: The Fearless Police Officer Who Captured Lawrence Anini in the 80s

On the morning of November 14, 2021, the world bid farewell to a true hero, Mr. Kayode Ueneroro, the fearless police officer whose unwavering courage led to the capture of the notorious armed robber Lawrence Anini in the late 1980s.

Kayode, who stood over six feet tall, possessed a formidable physique, and carried a no-nonsense visage, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of remarkable bravery. At the time of Anini’s notorious crime spree, Kayode served as the commandant at the Mopol training school in Gwoza. His remarkable skills as a crack police detective, combined with his black belt in Karate, positioned him as the ideal candidate to apprehend Anini.

Lawrence Anini had become a national embarrassment with his audacious armed robberies, prompting then Inspector General of Police (IGP) to assign Kayode the task of capturing the infamous criminal. Leading a ten-man team of highly trained officers working incognito but heavily armed, Kayode stormed into a house in Benin City where Anini was hiding.

Acting on valuable intelligence, the team swiftly immobilized Anini by shooting him in the left ankle. This marked the end of Lawrence Anini’s reign of terror and the national embarrassment he had orchestrated.

Following this heroic accomplishment, Kayode transitioned from the police service to become the Chief Security Officer of a top bank. During this time, he had become famous both in his neighborhood in the Akoka area of Lagos and in the entire country at large. But despite his remarkable exploits in the police force, Kayode remained a jolly fellow, a perfect gentleman, and a giant of a man. He rarely spoke of his adventures in the force, humorously referring to his licensed personal rifle as ‘Bomboy.’

Kayode’s vigilance never waned, and his preparedness for action was evident as he would instruct his son to fetch ‘Bomboy’ whenever he sensed potential danger in his neighborhood. His dedication to maintaining peace and security was unwavering, and he ensured ‘Bomboy’ was always within arm’s reach.

Later in life, Kayode pursued legal studies, ultimately opening a private law office in the Ebute-Metta area of Lagos. He practiced law until his untimely demise. May he rest in peace, and may the memory of this great warrior be a blessing to all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

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