IGP Egbetokun directs withdrawal of Police officers from VIPs nationwide
IGP Egbetokun directs withdrawal of Police officers from VIPs nationwide
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the immediate withdrawal of Police Mobile Force (PMF) officers attached to private individuals nationwide.
The order was disclosed on Tuesday by Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, following a strategic meeting between the IGP and PMF squadron commanders at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
Egbetokun emphasized that the PMF, as the elite tactical unit of the police, must return to its primary responsibilities—responding to riots, violent crimes, and emergency situations.
He criticised the current practice of deploying PMF operatives for VIP escorts and private security, describing it as a misuse that undermines the unit’s effectiveness.
To support this repositioning, the IGP announced a set of reforms, including quarterly training on ethics and professionalism, and the requirement for all squadrons to maintain combat-ready standby units.
He stressed that commanders will be held accountable for the behaviour and deployment of their personnel and urged them to take an active leadership role through regular inspections, hands-on training, and mentorship.
The IGP said the reforms are aimed at restoring discipline, protecting human rights, and enhancing operational capacity in line with international standards.
He reiterated the police force’s resolve to return the PMF to its intended role as a reliable and professional tactical team.
Egbetokun also thanked President Bola Tinubu for his ongoing support and acknowledged contributions from international partners toward improving the force’s technical and operational readiness.
He urged all PMF commanders to view the reform process not just as a directive but as a moral and professional obligation.
