The Acting Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has mandated the immediate withdrawal of personnel of the Police Mobile Force (PMF) from VIPs escort and guard duties.

Egbetokun issued the order on Monday at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, during a strategic meeting with Squadron Commanders of the Police Mobile Force, PMF, and Special Protection Unit, SPU.

The police boss said the force would re-evaluate the responsibilities of the PMF to ensure their effective utilisation, according to the News Agency of Nigeria.

He said, “Specifically, we shall effect the withdrawal of PMF personnel from VIP escort and 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,” he said.

The IGP further highlighted that the basic tasks of the police are to maintain law and order and to safeguard people and property.

He stressed that police officers must closely adhere to the police code of conduct and behave themselves in a manner that commands the public’s respect.

“To ensure the smooth implementation of this policy, we will, in consultation with the Police Service Commission, invoke the Supernumerary provision of Sections 23, 24 and 25 of the Police Act 2020.

“The Act allows the police to train supernumerary officers specifically for the personal protection duties of individual Nigerians who require their services,” he added.