A man has sparked intense discussion on social media after claiming that some police officers assigned to VIPs are now wearing suits while performing their duties, a move he insists is a way to circumvent President Bola Tinubu’s directive regarding the withdrawal of security personnel from VIPs.
President Bola Tinubu had recently ordered the withdrawal of police personnel from VIPs, aiming to reduce excessive security presence around prominent figures and encourage a more transparent approach to law enforcement. The directive was widely praised by Nigerians who believed it would limit the misuse of police resources and promote accountability. However, some citizens expressed skepticism about how effectively the order would be implemented, raising concerns that VIPs might find ways to bypass the new rules.
VIPs Allegedly Bypassing New Security Rule
Following the President’s directive, the Nigerian Police announced the withdrawal of officers assigned to VIPs. The announcement was intended to ensure compliance with the order and restore public confidence in the management of law enforcement resources. Despite this, an X (formerly Twitter) user known as Ayekooto claimed that certain VIPs have resisted releasing their police escorts. According to him, these officers have adapted by changing into suits, effectively blending in with civilian crowds and avoiding scrutiny while continuing to provide protection to their assigned VIPs.
In a post shared online, Ayekooto wrote: “A new method used by some police officers attached to VIPs in order to bypass public scrutiny following Mr President’s directive is that they now accompany their VIPs wearing suits instead of their police uniform. The IG should look into this new observation. No officer or VIP should be allowed to undermine the CinC.”
Nigerians React Strongly Online
The post triggered a wide array of reactions from Nigerians, many expressing frustration over perceived disobedience by the police and VIPs. Users argued that such actions undermine the authority of both the President and the Inspector General of Police, raising questions about discipline and accountability within the force.
Ademola Alaniyi commented humorously on the perceived perks enjoyed by police officers stationed with VIPs: “The so called Police officers lives in the BQ at least of big man’s house, eat free food, drinks etc, charge phone 24/7 cos rich man’s house is powered always, also obo ofe ninu ile pelu awon house help or omoge adugbo 😆, most importantly, money! And u want them to leave? Nahhĥ 😆”
Odunayo emphasized the need for disciplinary measures: “Not until a couple of them are made to face requisite disciplinary measure for disobeying both the President and the IG, they’ll continue to float the order with impunity.”
Akinnagbe pointed out the lack of reliable data: “The thing is we lack data. Does IG self know how many police attached to vips escort an how many dey station? That’s what feels like the order is not working.”
Solace2mins criticized the leadership of the police: “Can’t the IG of Police withdraw his men? If he can’t call his men to order then he isn’t fit to lead the Force. What sort of toothless leader is that? Now I understand why they can’t do anything about Police brutality. It took Nigerians to protest before SARS was dismantled.”
Kolawole Kihinde expressed disappointment over the behavior of VIPs and law enforcement: “Why are these VIPs hellbent on doing the wrong things? Why are these law enforcement agents so unruly?”
The allegations and ensuing discussions reflect growing public concern about compliance with presidential directives and the accountability of police officers assigned to VIP protection. While the withdrawal order aimed to reduce unnecessary security around public figures, citizens remain skeptical that the practice will be fully enforced, especially when wealth, influence, and convenience appear to motivate continued misuse of police resources.