The Nigerian Police Force has begun enforcing President Bola Tinubu’s directive ordering the withdrawal of police officers attached to Very Important Persons (VIPs) across the country.
The development followed a circulating internal memo shared publicly by presidential aide Bayo Onanuga on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, confirming that the order is already in effect.
Internal Memo Directs Immediate Compliance
The memo was issued by ASP Neji Veronica, the Admin Officer, on behalf of the Commanding Officer of Special Protection Unit (SPU) Base 16 in Lagos. It instructed officers assigned to VIP security duties to return to base without delay.
The letter read: “SUB NO. 1: ORDER AND DIRECTIVES: Sequel to the directive of Mr. President and C-in-C of the armed forces on the withdrawal of Police personnel attached to VIPs, the Commanding Officer directs with immediate effect the withdrawal of all personnel of SPU Base 16 attached to VIPs/Beats across the federation back to Base.
“You are all warned to report back before the end of today Monday 24/11/2025 and all to attend the Lecture Parade tomorrow. Attendance shall be taken from the nominal roll. This is for your information and strict compliance.”
Nationwide Implementation Expected
Although the memo referenced SPU Base 16, the directive is expected to apply to units nationwide as part of broader reforms aimed at boosting internal security.
The withdrawal order aligns with the President’s earlier announcement that police officers should be reassigned from VIP protection to strengthen public safety operations.
Further clarification from police authorities is anticipated in the coming days, as attention shifts to how VIPs will adjust to the policy change and how security gaps may be managed during the transition.
