Olukayode Egbetokun, the Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), stated that members of the Police Mobile Force (PMF) would no longer be performing VIP escort and guard duties.
He said the power would reconsider the obligations of the PMF to guarantee their compelling usage.
He said:
“Specifically, we shall effect the withdrawal of PMF personnel from VIP escort and guard duties.“While the protection of dignitaries remains paramount, it is imperative that we realign our priorities to address the escalating security challenges faced by the nation as a whole.“By relieving the PMF of VIP escort and guard duties, we can redirect their focus and efforts toward addressing critical security concerns that affect our communities at large,” he said.
The IGP stated that a special committee led by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Operations had been established to evaluate and offer recommendations regarding the strategy's seamless implementation.
He claims that additional details will be made available after the committee submits its report in two weeks.
According to Mr. Egbetokun, the police will be focused on enforcing the law and working with partners to build safe communities and foster an atmosphere where everyone feels valued and protected.
He added:
“To support the foregoing strategic plan and make needed manpower available for frontline duties, the withdrawn PMF officers will be replaced by officers of the Special Protection Unit (SPU) only where necessary.“To ensure the smooth implementation of this policy, we will, in consultation with the Police Service Commission, invoke the Supernumerary provision of Sections 23, 24 and 25 of the Police Act 2020.“The Act allows the police to train supernumerary officers specifically for the personal protection duties of individual Nigerians who require their services.”
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