How can I be using prîvate Guards? I’m entitled to police escorts – Samuel Anyanwu
How can I be using prîvate Guards? I’m entitled to police escorts – Samuel Anyanwu
According to a report by the Punch on Friday, November 28, 2025, prominent Nigerians are turning to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for security protection following President Bola Tinubu’s directive withdrawing 11,566 police officers from VIP protection duties. The massive recall aims to redirect security manpower to address escalating kîdnåppîng crises in northern states including Kwara, Kebbi, and Niger.
Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun confirmed the large-scale redeployment, emphasizing that the move was designed to refocus policing on communities ravaged by crime rather than being a punitive measure. The recalled officers are being immediately reassigned to critical policing duties to strengthen rural security, improve intelligence operations, and boost rapid response capacity.
Among those affected by the policy is suspended PDP National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, who expressed support for the initiative while asserting his continued entitlement to official protection. He questioned the practicality of alternatives, stating, “How can I be using private guards? I’m entitled to police escorts,” while confirming he had already applied to the NSCDC for replacement security personnel.
The policy has generated mixed reactions among political figures. APC South-East Vice Chairman Dr. Ijeoma Arodiogbu warned that depriving VIPs of protection could create new security vulnerabilities, noting that prominent individuals often become prime targets for criminals and political adversaries. However, he acknowledged the need for prioritization, criticizing situations where wealthy traders travel with excessive security details.
In contrast, Senator Ali Ndume strongly endorsed the policy, revealing that he had long advocated for such measures and personally refused multiple police orderlies. He criticized the abuse of police protection, particularly noting that some ministers had officers assigned not only to themselves but also to their wives and children.
