Why We Are Not Changing Withdrawal of MOPOL Officers from VIPs – Police

The police high command has vowed not to recoil on its plan to withdraw mobile policemen, known as MOPOL, from influential personalities in the country.

Disclosing this to newsmen, yesterday, the spokesman, CSP Muyiwa Adejobi, noted that the command “is addressing recent news regarding the possible reversal” of the Police Mobile Force (PMF) reform policy and the decision of Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, to withdraw PMF personnel from certain important personalities.

He said: “The force wishes to clarify that the decision to withdraw PMF personnel from escort and guard duties stands firm, and there will be no going back on this critical policy change.

“The withdrawal process has already commenced with a comprehensive report, which has been submitted by the committee assigned to oversee the seamless implementation of this directive. The IGP has activated the mobilisation process for establishment of Police Quick Intervention Squad (PQIS), which precedes the withdrawal policy.

“The decision to withdraw PMF personnel from Very Important Personalities (VIPs) is part of ongoing efforts to optimise the allocation of resources and enhance the efficiency of Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in its core mandate of safeguarding the lives and properties of all citizens.”
According to him, while the NPF is poised to ensure a smooth transition, it is committed to providing adequate security for VIPs, who are entitled to such protection.

He added: “Meanwhile, 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. No VIP or critical infrastructure will be left unprotected as a result of the new policy.

“The IGP remains resolute in his pursuit of reforms and initiatives that will enhance professionalism and public trust in NPF. The decision to withdraw PMF personnel from VIPs is driven by the need to create a more robust, efficient and people-centred police force that caters for the security needs of all citizens equally.”

The IGP, Adejobi noted, urged all stakeholders to support the police during the transition period to strengthen the security apparatus and create a safer environment for everyone to thrive.

Credit: The Guardian