Lawmakers’ Safety at Risk: Akpabio Appeals to Tinubu Over Police Withdrawal

Lawmakers’ Safety at Risk: Akpabio Appeals to Tinubu Over Police Withdrawal

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reconsider the directive withdrawing police orderlies from members of the National Assembly, citing growing safety concerns among lawmakers.

Akpabio made the plea on Friday during the presentation of the 2026 budget to a joint session of the Senate and House of Representatives, warning that some legislators feared they might be unable to return home safely following the withdrawal of their security aides.

“As we direct the security agencies to withdraw policemen from critical areas, some members of the National Assembly said I should let you know they may not be able to go home today,” Akpabio said. “On that note, we plead with Mr President for a review of the decision.”

The appeal follows a directive issued by President Tinubu on November 23, ordering the withdrawal of police officers attached to Very Important Persons (VIPs) and their redeployment to core policing duties nationwide, amid heightened security challenges.

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According to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the decision was taken after a high-level security meeting involving service chiefs and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS). Under the policy, VIPs requiring protection are to seek security support from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), as part of efforts to strengthen police presence in communities, especially in insecure and remote areas.

President Tinubu later reaffirmed the directive on December 10, expressing frustration over delays in implementation. He directed the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, to work with the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the NSCDC to ensure immediate replacement of withdrawn escorts where necessary to avoid exposing individuals to danger.

“I honestly believe in what I said. It should be effected,” Tinubu said. “If you have any problem because of the nature of your assignment, contact the IGP and get my clearance.”

The policy has, however, triggered tension within the Senate, with lawmakers alleging selective enforcement of the directive. Senator Mohammed Ningi argued that the withdrawal should be applied uniformly across all public office holders, including the President, Vice President, Senate President, Speaker of the House and ministers.

He lamented that while some senators lost their only police orderly without prior notice, ministers, business moguls and private individuals reportedly continue to move with multiple security personnel.

The debate has intensified calls within the National Assembly for a review or clearer implementation framework of the policy to balance public safety with the government’s broader security reform agenda.

Lawmakers’ Safety at Risk: Akpabio Appeals to Tinubu Over Police Withdrawal