Recent investigations reveal that President Bola Tinubu's directive to withdraw police officers from VIP protection duties has largely failed. Officers continue to serve influential individuals by disguising themselves and paying bribes to circumvent the order.
President Tinubu issued the directive on November 23, 2025, during a security meeting with service chiefs. He instructed Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun to recall all personnel from non-essential VIP escorts. Officers returned to their bases and surrendered service rifles for redeployment to core policing functions.
The move aimed to address Nigeria's security challenges, including mass kidnappings in Kebbi and Niger states. With the police force overstretched, thousands of officers protected politicians, businessmen, and celebrities, leaving ordinary citizens vulnerable.
However, enforcement proved ineffective. Police sources confirm that most affected officers have resumed duties through various schemes. They disguise themselves as vigilantes or members of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to evade detection. Others wear corporate suits and pose as private drivers while providing armed protection
Bribery plays a central role in this evasion. Officers pay up to ₦500,000 to have their surrendered rifles reissued. They then return to VIP service under informal arrangements. The Inspector General's monitoring team conducted symbolic arrests, releasing detainees shortly after.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio expressed concerns during the 2026 budget presentation, noting that without escorts, senators risk safety in insecure constituencies. Similar directives in past administrations also failed due to poor enforcement.
This failure highlights systemic issues in Nigeria's policing. It enriches senior officers while maintaining the status quo. President Tinubu approved recruiting 30,000 new officers, but without strict implementation, such measures may not curb insecurity.