“If You Identify a VIP With Police Escorts, Capture and Report Evidence” — Presidency Urges Nigerians

The Presidency is urging Nigerians to help monitor compliance with President Bola Tinubu’s order withdrawing police escorts from VIPs, calling for citizens to report anyone flouting the directive.

Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, made the appeal during an appearance on TVC, emphasising that the directive will be strictly enforced. He encouraged Nigerians to document violations whenever possible, noting that photos or videos could help authorities hold offenders accountable.

Bwala clarified that the withdrawal of police escorts does not cover every government official, as some figures with sensitive responsibilities will still receive official protection. However, he explained that such protection would now come from agencies like the Department of State Services or the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, not the police.

He underscored that police personnel must return to core policing duties, aligning with the administration’s goal of strengthening public safety and ensuring officers are deployed where they are most needed.

The Presidency maintains that the decision is part of broader reforms aimed at improving security nationwide and ensuring law enforcement resources are properly utilised.