The Force Headquarters will soon withdraw personnel of the Police Mobile Force (PMF) from VIPs escort and guard duties, according to the Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olukayode Egbetokun.
He said the focus of the mobile police personnel will be directed towards addressing critical security concerns that affect local communities at large.
Egbetokun, spoke on Monday at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, during a strategic meeting with Squadron Commanders of the Police Mobile Force (PMF) and Special Protection Unit (SPU).
Egbetokun, who also directed that all police patrol vehicles must obey traffic rules and regulations, stressed the need for men and officers to maintain law and order, saying the protection of lives, properties are the primary duties of the police.
Charging officers to strictly adhere to the code of conduct of the police and conduct themselves in a manner that would command them respect from the public, the IGP said the force would re-evaluate the responsibilities of the PMF to ensure their effective utilisation.
He said: “Specifically, we shall effect the withdrawal of PMF personnel from VIP escort and guard duties.
“While the protection of dignitaries remains paramount, it is imperative that we realign our priorities to address the escalating security challenges faced by the nation as a whole.
“By relieving the PMF of VIP escort and guard duties, we can redirect their focus and efforts toward addressing critical security concerns that affect our communities at large.”
The IGP said a special committee headed by Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Operations had been set up to assess and advise on how the strategy could be implemented seamlessly.
He said the committee is expected to submit its report in two weeks after which further details will be made available.