Senate President Godswill Akpabio has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to reconsider the recent directive withdrawing police personnel assigned to protect Very Important Persons (VIPs), warning that the decision has heightened security concerns, particularly for members of the National Assembly.
Akpabio made the plea on Friday during a joint sitting of the National Assembly, shortly after President Tinubu presented the 2026 budget proposal.
He said several federal lawmakers now felt exposed and vulnerable following the redeployment of their police escorts.
President Tinubu had, on November 23, ordered the withdrawal of police officers attached to VIPs across the country.
The directive was aimed at freeing up personnel to strengthen policing in communities grappling with rising insecurity.
Under the new arrangement, individuals who require armed protection are expected to seek security coverage from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) rather than the police.
Raising the issue on the floor of the Assembly, Akpabio conveyed the concerns of lawmakers who fear that the absence of police protection could place them at risk.
He noted that some legislators were apprehensive about returning to their homes after the session, citing possible threats to their safety.
The Senate President, while addressing the president directly, urged him to review the policy in the interest of the security of elected representatives and other affected persons.
He made the appeal respectfully, acknowledging the president’s authority while stressing the need to balance security reforms with the protection of public office holders.
Beyond the security concern, Akpabio commended President Tinubu for the economic reforms initiated since the beginning of his administration in May 2023.
He described Nigeria’s journey as one defined by resilience and perseverance, adding that although the reforms have been painful, they are beginning to yield positive results.
He assured the president of the National Assembly’s support, stating that lawmakers stand ready to work with the executive arm to advance the reform agenda and consider the 2026 budget proposal.
According to him, the legislature shares both in the difficulties encountered during the reform process and in the optimism surrounding the prospects of economic recovery.
The appeal by the Senate President adds to ongoing debate over the withdrawal of police personnel from VIP duties, a policy that has drawn mixed reactions amid broader efforts by the Federal Government to address Nigeria’s security challenges.
