Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, ordered police officers to arrest anyone found escorting unauthorised VIPs. The directive, issued on November 30, instructed the IGP Monitoring Unit and Commissioners of Police X-Squads to monitor and enforce the VIP escorts ban strictly.
The police leadership wants officers to return to core duties and improve public safety. Any officer violating the rule must face immediate arrest, while their supervisors will face disciplinary action.
VIP Escorts Ban Follows Presidential Directive
President Bola Tinubu had earlier directed the withdrawal of police personnel from non-entitled VIPs on November 23. He stressed that law enforcement resources must focus on protecting citizens, not private individuals.
Despite the withdrawal of over 11,000 officers, videos and photos showed some officers still escorting private individuals. This prompted the IGP to take a tougher, active stance on enforcement.
Nationwide Enforcement and Consequences
The IGP sent the directive to all police zones, Mobile Police Force units, the VIP Protection Unit, and the Counter-Terrorism Force. Officers must follow the order, and anyone found breaking it will face immediate arrest.
Supervising officers who allow breaches will receive disciplinary action, including suspension, demotion, or dismissal. CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, Force Public Relations Officer, confirmed that only people legally entitled to police protection will keep their escorts. Others must seek private security through approved agencies like the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. For official guidance, visit the NSCDC portal: https://www.nscdc.gov.ng
The police confirmed that the crackdown will continue until full compliance occurs across the country.
Read also: Tinubu Orders Withdrawal of Police From VIPs Nationwide
