SENATE President Godswill Akpabio has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to review the directive ordering the withdrawal of police operatives attached to Very Important Persons (VIPs), citing growing security concerns for federal lawmakers.
News Point Nigeria reports that President Tinubu had, on November 23, ordered the immediate withdrawal of police officers assigned to VIPs across the country, directing that the affected personnel be redeployed to frontline duties to address Nigeria’s worsening security challenges.
Under the directive, VIPs and public officials requiring armed protection are expected to seek security coverage from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), rather than relying on the Nigeria Police Force.
Akpabio raised the concern on Friday during a joint sitting of the National Assembly, shortly after President Tinubu presented the 2026 Appropriation Bill to lawmakers.
While commending the President for his leadership and reform agenda, the Senate President warned that the withdrawal of police personnel had left members of the National Assembly exposed to potential security risks.
“Only one concern, Mr President,” Akpabio said. “As we direct the security agencies to withdraw policemen from critical areas, some of the National Assembly members said I should let you know that they may not be able to go home today because they may be picked up.”
He added that the fear among lawmakers stemmed from the absence of immediate replacement security arrangements following the withdrawal of police operatives previously attached to them.
“On that note, we plead with Mr President for a review of the decision. May God bless you, may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and may God bless our National Assembly,” Akpabio said.
The Senate President’s remarks highlighted growing concerns within the legislature over personal safety, especially as lawmakers frequently travel to their constituencies across different parts of the country, some of which face persistent security threats.
Despite the appeal, Akpabio used the opportunity to praise President Tinubu for the economic reforms introduced since assuming office on May 29, 2023, describing them as bold and necessary steps toward national recovery.
He acknowledged the hardships Nigerians have endured as a result of the reforms but expressed optimism that the policies were beginning to yield positive results.
“Our national story has never been one of perfection. It has always been a story of perseverance, and the people are motivated passionately,” Akpabio said.
He further assured the President of the National Assembly’s readiness to support the administration’s legislative agenda, including the consideration and passage of the 2026 budget.
“Let me say, Mr President, that the National Assembly is ready for you. We are ready to receive the 2026 budget.
“We share in all the pain you have gone through in the last year, and we also share in the applause of the reform agenda of your administration,” he added.
As of press time, the Presidency had not issued an official response to Akpabio’s request for a review of the police withdrawal directive.