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Hot air? IGP suspends withdrawal of policemen attached to VIPs

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Unidentified men gun down police officer in Ondo

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Ibrahim Idris, has shifted ground on his order for the withdrawal of police officers attached to VIPs, political and public office holders, as well as public and private companies.

From earlier ordering immediate compliance, Idris now says the status quo is to remain till April 20.

The IGP had on March 19 ordered the immediate withdrawal of all police officers attached to individuals, particularly VIPs, political and public office holders in the country.

However, a statement by the Force spokesman, Jimoh Moshood, in Abuja on Thursday, said the shift followed the IGP’s meeting with the Commanders of Police Mobile Force (PMF), Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU) and Special Protection Unit (SPU).

Moshood said the delay would enable the Force carry out a thorough assessment of the current deployment and implement appropriate withdrawal.

He said that the DIG of police in charge of Operations had been mandated to direct Commissioners of Police, Assistant Inspectors-General of Police in the States and Zonal Commands, to halt the withdrawal pending the new date.

Read also: INSECURITY: Buhari challenges security agencies to up their game

The police spokesperson said the Task Force set up by the IGP and the Assistant Inspectors-General of Police and Commissioners of Police, has also been directed to suspend the enforcement of the withdrawal.

Moshood urged VIPs, political and public office holders and other entities to retain the police officers currently with them on deployment.

“The renewed commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to guarantee protection of lives and property across the country remains unequivocal and unwavering,” Jimoh said.

The police boss also said that a memo would be forwarded to President Muhammadu Buhari for approval.

 

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