VIPs Still Move With Police Escorts Despite Tinubu’s Withdrawal Order

President Bola Tinubu’s November 23, 2025 directive ordered the withdrawal of police officers attached to unauthorised VIPs, with the affected personnel expected to return to community-policing duties. VIPs needing protection were directed to seek armed escorts from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). The Nigeria Police Force also warned that officers providing illegal escorts could be arrested, while commanders who fail to enforce the order may face discipline. Yet investigations across several states found uneven compliance, with politicians, businesspeople, traditional rulers and other influential figures still moving with police protection. In states including Osun, Imo, Delta, Enugu, Kaduna, Benue, Cross River, Akwa Ibom and Niger, some escorts were reportedly retained because of kidnapping threats, election violence and other security risks. Officers were also alleged to operate discreetly in plain clothes or as drivers. Police authorities said some protected persons remain exempt because of their offices or specific security threats. Critics, however, argue that the NSCDC may not yet have enough armed personnel to replace police escorts nationwide.

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