In response to the persistent wave of killings and attacks in Plateau, Benue, the Southeast, and other parts of Nigeria, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate withdrawal of Mobile Police (MOPOL) officers deployed for unauthorized purposes.
The IGP issued the directive during a meeting with Police
Mobile Force (PMF) Squadron Commanders, convened to review operational
strategies for addressing the escalating insecurity across the country.
“Directives have already been issued concerning the
withdrawal of PMF personnel from unauthorized deployments. All commanders are
to enforce this directive without delay. A firm but gradual withdrawal from
non-core assignments is underway,” Egbetokun said.
He added that the size of PMF squadrons will also be
reviewed and streamlined to ensure operational efficiency.
Egbetokun emphasized the original purpose of the PMF as a
tactical unit designed to respond swiftly to riots, emergencies, and internal
crises, offering critical support to state commands in high-risk operations.
“Regrettably, this foundational mandate has been compromised
over time. A significant number of PMF personnel are deployed as escorts,
guards, or aides to private individuals and VIPs. This diversion weakens our
capacity to respond where needed most,” he said.
The IGP expressed concern over persistent misconduct by some
officers on such assignments, noting that these actions have tarnished the
image of the Force.
“Indiscipline and misconduct within the PMF will no longer
be tolerated. Today marks the beginning of a new era—one defined by
accountability, discipline, and a recommitment to our founding values,” he
declared.
Effective immediately, each PMF squadron must maintain at
least one fully equipped, combat-ready unit on standby for tactical
interventions. Additionally, every squadron will be required to send one unit
for quarterly training focused on ethics, professionalism, and responsible
policing.
Commanders will be held vicariously accountable for the
conduct of their personnel and are expected to lead through regular lectures,
inspections, and localized training programs that reinforce discipline and
human rights.
“The PMF must once again emerge as the elite tactical unit
it was intended to be—disciplined, professional, and ready to defend the
nation,” Egbetokun said.
The IGP also highlighted the rising threat of coordinated
attacks on security personnel across the country—from separatists in the
Southeast to terrorists in the Northeast—and called for a united security
front.
He announced that the newly established Special Intervention
Squad (SIS) will support PMF deployments in conflict zones.
“Security is a shared responsibility. Our success depends on
trust, respect, and cooperation with all sister security agencies.”
As part of broader reforms, Egbetokun said the Police Force
will embark on a comprehensive reorganization of the PMF, including a
significant reduction in VIP escort and guard duties.
“Our focus now is on combating violent crimes and
safeguarding national security. We are injecting new leadership perspectives
and continuous capacity-building to restore the PMF to its rightful role in
internal security and tactical excellence.”
