Former presidential aide, Laolu Akande, says the implementation of President Bola Tinubu’s directive ordering the withdrawal of police personnel from VIP escorts will take time, stressing that the process is more complex than it appears.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Thursday, in a programme monitored by DAILY POST.
Akande explained that although the directive is already in motion, its full execution cannot be swift.
“Clearly, the presidential directive to withdraw police from VIPs and VVIPs, I imagine, is in progress,” he said.
“Practically, it will have to take a little while for it to be completely implemented.”
Akande noted that his interactions with security experts and serving police officers indicate that an immediate withdrawal is unrealistic.
“There are also specific instances where people were given police protection because they are exposed to threats or had documented circumstances,” he explained.
“Some of them are even foreign investors doing business here who see such protection as part of the incentives. So it’s fairly complicated.”
He acknowledged the President’s position that police officers should focus more on community security, but insisted that the transition must be carefully managed.
“We may need a little bit more of a transition because even when you withdraw the IGP said about 12,000.
“Are they ready? Are they immediately ready to be deployed? Do they have the motivation? Do they have the equipment? Are they even trained?”
Akande emphasised that while the reform is necessary, its success will depend on addressing logistical, operational, and personnel preparedness challenges within the Nigeria Police Force.
Implementing Tinubu’s directive on Police withdrawal more complex than it appears – Aide Akande
