Crime

IGP Cracks Down: Nationwide Arrest Order for VIP Escort Officers After Tinubu’s Directive

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on December 1st, 2025.

In a sweeping move aimed at restoring discipline and accountability within the Nigeria Police Force, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) has ordered the nationwide arrest of officers who continue to escort VIPs in defiance of President Bola Tinubu’s recent directive. The decision marks one of the boldest enforcement actions taken since the policy to withdraw police personnel from unauthorized VIP security duties was announced.

According to sources within the Force Headquarters, the IGP issued the directive to all zonal commanders and state commissioners, mandating immediate compliance and strict monitoring. Any officer found performing escort duties for politicians, businessmen, or private individuals without formal approval will face arrest, disciplinary action, and possible dismissal.

The clampdown follows President Tinubu’s renewed push to reform policing standards and refocus security resources on combating rising insecurity across the country. The President had earlier frowned at the misuse of police personnel for personal protection, describing it as a distortion of national security priorities.

In a statement circulated internally, the IGP emphasized that the era of “business as usual” was over. He noted that too many officers had abandoned their core responsibilities to serve as private bodyguards, weakening the operational strength of the police at a time when the nation faces heightened threats, from banditry to urban crime.

The enforcement order has already prompted security formations across the country to begin recall operations. Some VIPs have reportedly appealed for extensions or special approvals, but police authorities insist that only individuals with verifiable high-risk profiles and proper documentation will be considered.

Public reaction has been mixed. While many Nigerians welcome the move as long overdue, others question whether the policy will be implemented fairly or merely target lower-ranking officers. Civil society groups, however, argue that the reallocation of officers from private security duties back to public policing could significantly improve response times and overall security presence.

Analysts believe the success of the directive will depend on the firmness of the police leadership and its willingness to discipline violators, including influential VIPs who may attempt to undermine the order.

For now, the message from the IGP is unmistakably clear: the Nigeria Police Force will no longer tolerate rogue escort operations. Officers found flouting the directive should expect consequences, as the Force repositions itself to serve the collective interest of the nation rather than individual privilege.