The Federal Government has removed the Mobile Police Force troops assigned to a number of Very Important Persons, including former governors, ministers, and lawmakers.
The former First Lady’s sister, Aisha Buhari, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha and Daura Buhari, brother of former President Muhammadu Buhari were all affected by the order, which was sent over police radio from Mopol 45 Force Headquarters, Abuja.
A few weeks prior, the IG had promised to remove Police Mobile Force members from VIP protection and escort responsibilities.
He had also declared intentions to create the Special Intervention Squad, which he said would contain 40,000 highly skilled police personnel, including chosen members of the Police Mobile Force.
The purpose of this, according to the IG, was to provide the police the opportunity to reclaim their position within the nation’s “internal security architecture.”
Speaking at a meeting with Squadron commanders and Tactical Commanders on June 26 in Abuja, Egbetokun said,
“We shall effect the withdrawal of PMF personnel from VIP escort/guard duties. While the protection of dignitaries remains paramount, it is imperative that we realign our priorities to address the escalating security challenges faced by the nation as a whole. By relieving the PMF of VIP escort and guard duties, we can redirect their focus and efforts toward addressing critical security concerns that affect our communities at large.
“In a bid to kick-start the process of regaining our pride of place in the internal security architecture of our dear country first and foremost, modalities for the creation of a new special squad – the Special Intervention Squad have been initiated.
“This special squad shall consist of 40,000 specially trained elite officers. The Squad will be formed by selecting officers from the pool of existing Police Mobile Force personnel and all tactical units in the country.
“These officers will undergo intensive pre-deployment training to make them combat-ready for frontline operational duties in all the states of the Federation, with a particular focus on areas plagued with unrest and turmoil.
“By pooling together the expertise and experience of our PMF personnel and other tactical units, we can establish a formidable force that is well-equipped to handle the evolving challenges we face.”
Egbetokun established a committee under the direction of Adeleke Bode, Deputy Inspector-General of Police (Operations), to evaluate and provide recommendations on how the new policies will be implemented effectively.
cc: Punch Ng
