The Nigerian Senate has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to exempt its members from a presidential directive that orders the withdrawal of police personnel assigned to Very Important Persons (VIPs). The directive, issued on 23 November, aims to reassign police officers to more critical areas, but it has raised concerns among lawmakers about their security.
During a plenary session on Wednesday, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin expressed confidence that the president would reconsider the decision, describing him as a “listening leader.” The appeal followed Senator Abdul Ningi of Kebbi Central’s complaint that his sole police orderly had been withdrawn. Ningi pointed out that, while lawmakers are being stripped of their security details, other individuals—such as family members of political office holders, Chinese business officials and celebrities—continue to enjoy large security convoys.
The Senate leadership met on Tuesday to discuss the matter and resolved to request an exemption for lawmakers. Jibrin reiterated that the leadership is confident the president will consider their request and restore the withdrawn officers. The Special Protection Unit of the Nigeria Police Force has already begun implementing the directive, which has sparked worries that lawmakers could become vulnerable to threats and attacks.
The Senate’s appeal highlights the need for a balanced approach to security allocation, ensuring that legislators 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. This development comes amid ongoing efforts to reform Nigeria’s security architecture and tackle the complex challenges facing the nation.
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