Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has urged President Bola Tinubu to reconsider his directive withdrawing police orderlies from members of the National Assembly, emphasizing concerns over the safety of lawmakers.
Akpabio made the appeal on Friday during the presentation of the 2026 budget to a joint session of the National Assembly, noting that some legislators feared they might not be able to return home safely following the withdrawal.
“As we direct the security agencies to withdraw policemen from critical areas, some of the National Assembly said I should let you know they may not be able to go home today.
“On that note, we plead with Mr President for a review of the decision,” he said.
The call comes after President Tinubu, on November 23, ordered the redeployment of police officers attached to Very Important Persons to core policing duties nationwide.
According to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the directive followed a security meeting with service chiefs and the Director-General of the Department of State Services, amid rising security concerns in the country.
Under the directive, VIPs seeking protection are now expected to rely on the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, as the federal government aims to strengthen police presence in communities, particularly in remote areas facing insecurity.
On December 10, while presiding over the Federal Executive Council, Tinubu reaffirmed his order, expressing frustration over delays in its implementation.
He directed the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, to coordinate with the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Civil Defence Corps to replace withdrawn escorts and prevent individuals from being exposed to danger.
“I honestly believe in what I said…It should be effected. If you have any problem because of the nature of your assignment, contact the IGP and get my clearance,” Tinubu stressed.
“The minister of interior should liaise IG and the Civil Defence structure to replace those police officers who are on special security duties.
“So that you don’t leave people exposed,” he added.
The directive has stirred tension within the Senate, as lawmakers raised concerns over perceived selective enforcement.
“It should be done across the board—from the office of the President, to the Vice President, the Senate President, the Speaker of the House, Ministers, and others. I have been in public service since 1999 and have never kept more than one police orderly. Yet, mine was withdrawn without prior notice,” said Ningi.
He also highlighted instances where ministers, business magnates, and even children of political office holders continue to move with multiple security personnel.
“I have seen singers and other private individuals with orderlies and complimentary protection. I cannot imagine that a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria would have his only orderly withdrawn while others retain theirs,” he added.
