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Lawmakers Raise Alarm as Police Withdraw Escorts From VIPs

Members of the National Assembly have voiced strong concerns over the Federal Government’s directive withdrawing police protection from VIPs, warning that the move could expose them to heightened security risks.

During a plenary session, several lawmakers argued that the current security climate in the country makes the decision particularly troubling. According to them, criminal activities such as kidnapping, targeted attacks, and politically motivated violence remain rampant, placing public officials in a vulnerable position.

They noted that legislators frequently travel to their constituencies for official duties, making them potential targets for criminal groups. Without police escorts, they fear that their safety—and that of their families—could be compromised.

The lawmakers therefore urged the Inspector-General of Police and the Ministry of Police Affairs to reconsider or review the implementation strategy. They stressed that while the government’s intention to deploy more officers to frontline policing is commendable, the policy should not inadvertently create security gaps for individuals whose roles make them high-profile targets.

The Federal Government recently announced that police personnel attached to VIPs would be withdrawn to boost operational effectiveness across the country and ensure adequate manpower for addressing rising insecurity.

Although many citizens have welcomed the policy as a corrective step against the misuse of police escorts, lawmakers insist that a balanced approach is needed—one that strengthens national security while ensuring the personal safety of public office holders.

Debate on the matter is expected to continue as stakeholders seek a workable and holistic solution.