The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a directive to withdraw Mobile Police Force (MOPOL) officers from providing security to Very Important Persons (VIPs). This decision follows concerns about the inappropriate deployment of these officers, which the IGP described as diverting from their primary mission.
An emergency meeting was convened with MOPOL commanders to address the issue after a viral video showed a Chinese national giving money to MOPOL officers, sparking public outrage. MOPOL was originally established as a tactical unit to respond to emergencies and riots but has increasingly been used for VIP protection.
The IGP emphasized the need for the force to refocus on its foundational duties, highlighting that current practices undermine operational effectiveness. New directives include the immediate withdrawal of MOPOL from VIP security, maintenance of a combat-ready unit at all times, and quarterly training sessions that emphasize ethics and professionalism.
Security analyst Okasanmi Ajayi noted the inadequacy of police personnel relative to the civilian population and suggested empowering private security firms to reduce the burden on the police. This policy change marks a significant shift in the operational focus of the Nigeria Police Force, aiming for greater accountability and efficiency in law enforcement.
