Tinubu Insists on Full Withdrawal of Police From VIP Duties

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed that his directive ordering the withdrawal of police officers attached to VIPs, VVIPs and ministers remains firm and non-negotiable. The President issued the warning on Wednesday at the opening of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held at the Council Chamber of the State House, Abuja.

 

Addressing the Council, President Tinubu cautioned all ministers and top government officials to ensure immediate compliance, stressing that only the Inspector General of Police (IGP) can grant exceptions with his clearance.

 

“If you have any problem because of the nature of your assignments, please contact the IGP and get my clearance,’’ the President said.

 

He directed the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the Minister of Police Affairs, Sen. Ibrahim Gaidam, and the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to oversee the implementation of the order.

 

The President explained that police personnel were primarily trained to protect citizens—especially the most vulnerable—rather than a select group of dignitaries. He noted that the protection of VIPs will now be handled by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), which is equally trained and armed for such duties.

 

“The National Security and Civil Defence Corps are trained for VIP protection, and they are armed too,’’ President Tinubu stated, directing the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, to begin deploying NSCDC officials as replacements.

 

Tinubu emphasized that the decision was part of a broader restructuring aimed at strengthening national security, ensuring that police officers are mobilised effectively to confront kidnapping, banditry, terrorism and other threats affecting communities across the country.

 

“We need all forces utilised. I know some people are exposed; we will make the exceptions. The Civil Defence is very much around,’’ the President said.

 

On ranching reforms, President Tinubu instructed Vice President Kashim Shettima, who chairs the National Economic Council (NEC), to sensitise governors and stakeholders on implementation strategies. He further directed the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Muktar Maiha, to begin mobilisation, particularly in conflict-prone areas.

 

“The Minister of Livestock, see which village or grazing area can be rehabilitated for ranching. We must eliminate this area of conflict and make the livestock reform economically viable,” he said, reiterating that land belongs to the states.

 

The President maintained that proper ranching would significantly reduce recurring clashes between farmers and herders while safeguarding vulnerable villagers and communities.