Withdrawal of Escorts: Fear Grips VIPs as Police Plan Modalities
Fear has spread among Nigeria's VIPs following President Bola Tinubu’s order for the withdrawal of police escort services. The move, publicized by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, tasks the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) with VIP protection, freeing police for their core public safety duties. The decision, aimed at confronting nationwide security threats, has prompted uncertainty among influential persons, who question the NSCDC’s ability to provide adequate security compared to battle-ready mobile police units. Police sources cite heavy incoming calls from anxious VIPs, with some likening this shift to “engaging boy scouts,” fearing lower training and operational readiness. Security experts highlight years of resource diversion, with many police officers reassigned from community patrol to escort convoys, leaving neighborhoods under-protected. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) and civil society groups criticize the move as “political theatre” and not a strategic solution […]
