The Nigeria Police Force has issued a stern warning that any police officer caught providing escort services to Very Important Persons will face immediate arrest. The Force has declared such assignments illegal under the current leadership.
Strict Enforcement of IGP's Directive
Force Spokesman, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, made this announcement during an appearance on Channels Television on Tuesday, December 2. He emphasized that the enforcement operation ordered by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, is now fully active.
Hundeyin confirmed that all police officers previously attached to VIP protection details have been withdrawn and recalled to base. He stated that the IGP's directive is clear and unambiguous regarding the illegality of such duties at this time.
Arrest Orders for Airport Deployment
The police spokesperson provided specific details on the enforcement strategy. He revealed that the IGP has given direct orders to senior commanders to station personnel at key entry points to apprehend violators.
"The IGP ordered the AIG in charge of the Special Protection Unit to deploy his men at the Abuja airport and arrest any police officer found escorting VIPs," Hundeyin quoted. "He gave the same order to the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State to do the same at the Lagos airport. That's how seriously we take this."
This move indicates a targeted approach to intercept officers who might still be engaged in these now-prohibited duties, especially around major travel hubs.
Redeployment for National Security
The drastic measure is rooted in President Bola Tinubu's order to withdraw police escorts from VIPs. The primary objective is to redeploy these personnel to core policing duties across the country.
This redeployment is seen as a critical step in addressing the rising insecurity affecting various parts of Nigeria. The police force aims to bolster its frontline crime-fighting and public safety capabilities with the recalled officers.
Hundeyin also stressed that President Tinubu's order is absolute and not subject to influence or negotiation, dismissing any notion that exceptions could be made for "the highest bidder." The policy is to be applied uniformly without favor.
The Nigeria Police Force's firm stance marks a significant shift in the deployment of its human resources, prioritizing general public security over individual VIP protection in the current climate.
