Nigeria Police Orders Withdrawal Of Officers From VIPs

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun has ordered the withdrawal of mobile police officers from Very Important Persons (VIPs) with immediate effect.

The Force’s spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi in a statement, said the move became necessary as part of the reorganisation of the Police Mobile Force (PMF).

Adejobi notes that it is worrisome seeing PMF personnel being converted to non-core roles, including escort and guard duties for private individuals and VIPs.

According to Adejobi, such actions are undermining the efficiency of the unit.

The Force Spokesperson says that the IGP’s directives also include the immediate withdrawal of PMF personnel from unauthorised deployments, regular quarterly training focused on ethics and professionalism, and mandatory standby of fully equipped, combat-ready units across all squadrons for rapid tactical support.

The statement note that all PMF commanders will be held accountable for the conduct of their personnel, urging them to be proactive through regular training, inspections, and mentorship.

The IGP also charges all PMF Squadron Commanders to embrace the reform as a professional and moral responsibility, reiterating that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to its mandate of safeguarding lives, property, and national security.

While the PMF’s primary mandate includes handling high-risk operations such as counterinsurgency, riot control, and protection of critical infrastructure, a portion of its personnel is also assigned to provide security for Very Important Persons (VIPs), including senior government officials and members of the diplomatic community.​