Civil Defence are not competent enough to protect us – VIPs cry out
Following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to withdraw police escorts from VIPs, fear and uncertainty have gripped high-profile individuals across the country.
The move has sparked debate over the ability of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to provide adequate protection.
President Orders Redeployment of Police Officers
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga announced that police personnel previously assigned to VIP protection would now focus on their core duties.
VIPs who still require close protection are expected to engage NSCDC operatives.
The directive aims to strengthen police operations amid growing insecurity, but it has left many VIPs anxious about their safety.
VIPs Doubt Civil Defence Competency
Police sources revealed that several VIPs have contacted headquarters seeking clarification.
Many expressed doubts that NSCDC personnel, less equipped and trained than mobile police, can provide sufficient protection.
One VIP reportedly told Vanguard; “It will be like engaging Boy Scouts. Mobile policemen are more agile and battle-ready to confront any situation.”
Another warned that abrupt withdrawal without a clear transition plan could heighten insecurity fears.
Police Highlight Strain on Resources
Anonymous police officers noted that assigning units to VIP protection had long weakened police coverage in communities.
Entire units are often dedicated to escorting governors or business figures, leaving districts understaffed and slowing response times to crimes.
“In a country grappling with a wide range of security threats, including insurgencies, armed robberies, kidnappings, and communal violence, the use of law enforcement personnel to safeguard individuals who can afford private security is a cause for concern,” the officer said. “Police patrol teams in certain areas are often understaffed, and response times to distress calls are prolonged as a result of the overwhelming number of officers assigned to VIP duties. In some cases, police officers are redirected from high-crime areas to provide convoy escorts, leaving already vulnerable communities to fend for themselves.”
Debate Over Security Fairness
Human rights activist Tony Udemmadu warned that VIP police escorts undermine public trust.
“While the elite enjoy protection, ordinary citizens face mounting insecurity without adequate support,” he said.
He stressed the importance of balancing VIP safety with community security.
Calls for Rationalized Protection
Some VIPs agreed that escort services are necessary but argued for gradual reforms.
They stressed that protection measures should not compromise public safety or create perceptions of inequality.
“Rationalizing the exercise rather than an abrupt stop will help maintain both elite protection and societal security,” a source added.
Next Steps and Presidential Security Pledge
Police authorities have not yet provided detailed timelines for the withdrawal.
Meanwhile, President Tinubu has vowed to tackle terrorism and banditry decisively, ensuring no region is left vulnerable.
