The Nigerian Senate has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to exempt its members from a presidential directive ordering the withdrawal of police personnel from Very Important Persons (VIPs). The directive, issued on November 23, has raised concerns among lawmakers about their security. Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin expressed confidence that the president would reconsider the decision, describing him as a “listening leader.”
The appeal was made during a plenary session on Wednesday, after Senator Abdul Ningi from Kebbi Central complained that his only police orderly had been withdrawn. Ningi noted that while lawmakers were being stripped of their security details, other individuals, including family members of political office holders, Chinese business officials, and celebrities, still maintained large security convoys.
The Senate leadership had met on Tuesday to discuss the matter and resolved to appeal to the president to exempt lawmakers from the directive. Jibrin stated that the leadership is confident that the president will consider their request and restore the withdrawn officers. The Special Protection Unit of the Nigeria Police Force has begun implementing the directive, which aims to reassign police personnel to more critical areas.
The withdrawal of police personnel from VIPs has sparked concerns about the security of lawmakers, who may be vulnerable to threats and attacks. The Senate’s appeal highlights the need for a balanced approach to security allocation, ensuring that lawmakers are protected while also addressing the broader security needs of the country.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether President Tinubu will reconsider the directive and grant the Senate’s request. The development comes amid ongoing efforts to reform the country’s security architecture and address the complex security challenges facing Nigeria. The Senate’s appeal underscores the importance of finding a solution that balances the security needs of lawmakers with the need to optimize police resources and ensure public safety.