Senate President Godswill Akpabio has made a direct appeal to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to review a recent directive that withdrew police officers from protecting members of the National Assembly. Akpabio cited serious safety concerns, warning that some legislators fear for their ability to return home safely.
A Plea During Budget Presentation
The dramatic appeal was made on Friday, December 19, 2025, during President Tinubu's presentation of the 2026 budget estimates to a joint session of the National Assembly in Abuja. Akpabio, speaking on behalf of concerned lawmakers, conveyed their acute anxiety to the President.
"As we direct the security agencies to withdraw policemen from critical areas, some of the National Assembly said I should let you know they may not be able to go home today," Akpabio stated. "On that note, we plead with Mr President for a review of the decision." This public intervention highlights the tension between a major security policy reform and the personal safety of the nation's lawmakers.
Origin of the Presidential Directive
President Tinubu's controversial order was issued on November 23, 2025. Following a high-level security meeting with service chiefs and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), the President mandated the withdrawal of police officers attached to various Very Important Persons (VIPs).
According to Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the directive aims to redeploy these officers to core policing duties across the country. This move is a response to heightened security challenges nationwide, seeking to boost police visibility and effectiveness in communities, especially remote areas plagued by insecurity.
Implications and New Security Protocol
The presidential order signifies a significant shift in Nigeria's security protocol for elites. Under the new arrangement, VIPs who still require personal security details are expected to seek protection from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
This policy is part of a broader federal government strategy to reallocate policing resources to where they are deemed most needed: among the general populace. However, Akpabio's urgent plea underscores the immediate practical and perceived threats this sudden change has created for the political class, setting the stage for a potential review of the policy's implementation.
