Following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to withdraw police escorts from VIPs across Nigeria, apprehension and uncertainty have spread among high-profile individuals, who are now questioning their safety and the adequacy of alternative security arrangements. The announcement has sparked a nationwide debate on the capabilities of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to assume protective duties previously handled by the police.
President Orders Redeployment of Police Officers
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga disclosed that officers previously assigned to VIP protection will now focus on core policing duties aimed at enhancing general security across communities. The decision, according to Onanuga, is part of broader reforms intended to optimize police operations amid rising insecurity challenges in various regions of the country.
VIPs and high-ranking officials who still require close protection are now expected to engage NSCDC operatives, who will take over security responsibilities. While the move seeks to free police resources for general community policing, the abrupt change has left many influential Nigerians uneasy about their safety, given the NSCDC’s relatively limited training and mobility compared to mobile police units.
VIPs Doubt Civil Defence Competency
Police sources revealed that several VIPs have reached out to headquarters seeking clarification about the withdrawal, expressing concerns that NSCDC personnel may not be adequately equipped or trained to handle potential threats.
One prominent VIP reportedly told Vanguard, “It will be like engaging Boy Scouts. Mobile policemen are more agile and battle-ready to confront any situation. Transitioning to Civil Defence alone may expose us to unnecessary risks.” Another VIP warned that the lack of a phased implementation or detailed transition plan could amplify fears of insecurity among Nigeria’s elite.
[h2]Police Highlight Strain on Resources
Anonymous police officers highlighted that assigning units to VIP protection has long strained community policing, leaving many areas understaffed. Entire squads are frequently dedicated to escorting governors, senators, or wealthy business figures, often at the expense of patrolling neighborhoods and responding to criminal activities.
“In a country facing a multitude of security threats—ranging from insurgencies, armed robberies, kidnappings, to communal clashes—the use of law enforcement officers to protect VIPs who can afford private security is a significant concern,” one officer explained. “Police patrol teams in certain districts are already under pressure. Redirecting officers for VIP convoys reduces the presence of law enforcement in high-crime areas, leaving communities more vulnerable and slowing emergency response times.”
Debate Over Security Fairness
The directive has reignited discussions about security equity in Nigeria. Human rights activist Tony Udemmadu cautioned that prioritizing elite protection undermines public trust in law enforcement.
“While the elite enjoy protection, ordinary citizens continue to face rising insecurity with minimal support,” Udemmadu noted. He emphasized the need for reforms that balance VIP safety with the security needs of the general populace to maintain confidence in policing institutions.
Calls for Rationalized Protection
Some VIPs acknowledged that escort services remain important but urged a gradual and well-coordinated transition. They argued that security measures should not compromise public safety or create perceptions of inequality between Nigeria’s elite and ordinary citizens.
“Rationalizing the exercise instead of implementing an abrupt stop will help maintain both elite protection and societal security,” a source familiar with security arrangements added. Gradual handover, better training for NSCDC personnel, and clear communication are considered essential for preventing security gaps during the transition period.
Next Steps and Presidential Security Pledge
Police authorities have yet to provide a detailed timeline or roadmap for the withdrawal of officers assigned to VIP protection. Meanwhile, President Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to tackling terrorism, banditry, and other forms of insecurity nationwide, ensuring that no region is left exposed while security resources are reallocated.
Security analysts and community leaders are closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing that the success of the redeployment largely depends on adequate preparation, capacity building for NSCDC operatives, and clear coordination with police units to maintain both VIP protection and overall public safety.