Like a recurring decimal, the Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP), Olukayode Egbetokun, has withdrawn Police personnel attached to Very Important Personalities (VIPs) for escort and guard duties.
It has always been a tradition for many of his predecessors, but after pressure mounts, the order is reversed and the status quo is back.
Whether Egbetokun’s case will be different is left to be seen in the coming months.
The Police new helmsman explained that though the protection of dignitaries is paramount, priorities need to be realigned to address the escalating security challenges faced by Nigeria as a whole, ”by relieving the PMF of VIP escort and guard duties and redirect their focus toward addressing critical security concerns affecting our nation.”
On Monday at a meeting with his Police Tactical Commanders in Abuja,
Egbetokun said the Police high command will assess the duties of the Mobile Police to ensure effective utilisation.
“Specifically, we shall effect the withdrawal of PMF personnel from VIP escort and guard duties,” Egbetokun stated.