Nigerian military has reportedly arrested four police officers in Abuja
The Nigerian military has reportedly arrested four police officers in Abuja for allegedly violating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive banning police personnel from providing VIP escort and protection services across the country.
According to military, the arrest took place on Tuesday morning while the officers were allegedly escorting a VIP within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), despite the federal government’s clear order withdrawing police from such duties.
Officers Allegedly Defied Presidential Order
The affected officers, identified as personnel of the Police Mobile Force (PMF), were reportedly apprehended by military operatives during a routine security operation. The action is said to be part of ongoing efforts to enforce President Tinubu’s security reforms aimed at strengthening frontline policing and reducing the misuse of security personnel.
Military Sources revealed that the policemen were allegedly on unauthorised escort duty, a direct violation of the presidential directive issued earlier this year.
Alleged Disguise to Evade Detection
In a troubling twist, reports indicate that the officers allegedly wore uniforms resembling those of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in an attempt to evade detection while carrying out the prohibited duty.
The development has sparked concern among security analysts, who describe the incident as a test case for the federal government’s resolve to enforce discipline within Nigeria’s security agencies.
Background: Tinubu’s VIP Escort Withdrawal Directive
President Tinubu had ordered the immediate withdrawal of police officers from VIP protection duties nationwide, insisting that officers must be redeployed to combat rising insecurity, violent crime, and other internal threats.
The directive emphasized that:
- Police officers are to focus on core policing responsibilities
- VIPs must rely on approved alternatives such as private security or other designated agencies
- Any violation would attract strict disciplinary measures
What This Means for Abuja and National Security
Abuja has remained a hotspot for illegal VIP escort activities, with security agencies under pressure to ensure full compliance with the directive. The arrest of the four policemen signals a tougher enforcement phase and a warning to other officers still flouting the order.
The Nigeria Police Force is expected to commence internal disciplinary procedures, while investigations into the identity of the VIP involved are reportedly ongoing.
Public Reactions
Many Nigerians have welcomed the development, describing it as a positive step toward restoring professionalism and accountability within the security sector. Others, however, have called for transparency and equal enforcement across all agencies and political interests.
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