Tinubu’s VIP Police Withdrawal Directive Faces Setback As Officers Allegedly Disguise As Vigilantes, NSCDC Personnel
In what appears to be a major setback to the Federal Government’s security reform agenda, reports have emerged alleging that the directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to withdraw police officers from VIP protection duty has not been fully successful.
According to Sahara Reporters, some withdrawn police officers have allegedly found alternative means to continue serving high-profile individuals by disguising themselves as vigilantes, private drivers, and even members of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
Background: Tinubu’s Security Reform And VIP Police Withdrawal
President Tinubu had earlier ordered the removal of thousands of police officers attached to politicians, business elites, religious figures, and other VIPs — a move aimed at boosting frontline policing across the country.
Following the directive, the Inspector-General of Police confirmed the withdrawal of over 11,000 officers, stressing that the new security direction was intended to strengthen national policing capacity and reduce manpower shortages.
Allegations of Evasion and System Manipulation
However, Sahara Reporters claims that:
- Some officers allegedly paid as much as ₦500,000 to regain access to weapons and return to VIP duty.
- Others reportedly resumed escort roles while posing as private security staff.
- There were suggestions that some arrests made by monitoring units were symbolic, with the affected officers allegedly released shortly after.
These allegations point to ongoing concerns that the VIP police system — long criticized for weakening public security — may be resisting reform.
Public Reaction and Security Concerns
The development has sparked debate among security analysts and civil society groups who argue that the continuation of VIP escort services undermines policing capacity, especially at a time when insecurity remains a national challenge.
Many Nigerians have also raised questions about transparency, enforcement, and the political will needed to sustain the reforms.
What This Means for Abuja and Beyond
For Abuja residents, the issue reflects wider security implications:
- Reduced police visibility in communities
- Persistence of VIP protection culture
- Risk of corruption within enforcement systems
As the withdrawal policy continues to unfold, stakeholders are watching closely to see whether the Federal Government will tighten enforcement or review the strategy.
Conclusion
The VIP police withdrawal directive remains an important part of Nigeria’s security reform efforts, but the latest allegations highlight significant obstacles on the ground.
Nigerians now await further clarification from the Federal Government and police authorities regarding enforcement, compliance, and accountability.
