PMF Withdrawal: No Going Back On Policy – Police High Command Says
The Nigeria Police Force high command on Monday, July 24, 2023 reiterated that the decision to withdraw the Police Mobile Force (PMF) personnel from escort and guard duties remains firm, stressing that there will be no going back on the critical policy change.
This was as the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun assured that he remained resolute in his pursuit of reforms and initiatives that will enhance the professionalism and public trust in the Nigeria Police Force.
These were contained in a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi while responding to recent news alleging a reversal of the PMF reform policy, in which he stressed that the decision remain in force.
Adejobi specifically said that the decision of the Acting IGP Egbetokun, to withdraw Police Mobile Force (PMF) personnel from certain important personalities will not be reversed, adding that the withdrawal process had already commenced with a comprehensive report, which has been submitted by the constituted committee assigned to oversee the seamless implementation of the directive.
He said that IGP Egbetokun has already activated the mobilization process for the establishment of the Police Quick Intervention Squad which precedes the withdrawal policy.
The police spokesman further said; “The decision to withdraw Police Mobile Force personnel from VIP duties is part of ongoing efforts to optimize the allocation of resources and enhance the efficiency of the Nigeria Police Force in its core mandate of safeguarding the lives and properties of all citizens.
“While poised to ensure a smooth transition, the Nigeria Police Force is committed to providing adequate security arrangements for VIPs who are entitled to such protection,” he said.
Adejobi further said that the Force will carefully consider the provisions of Sections 23 to 25 of the Police Act 2020, in recruiting more supernumerary officers, to handle VIP security responsibilities and assured that no VIP or critical infrastructure will be left unprotected as a result of the new policy.
According to him; “The decision to withdraw Police Mobile Force personnel from VIPs is driven by the need to create a more robust, efficient, and people-centered police force that caters to the security needs of all citizens equally.
“The IGP, therefore, urges the public and all stakeholders to support and cooperate with the Nigeria Police Force during this transition period to strengthen the security apparatus and create a safer environment for everyone to thrive”.
