In response to escalating violence in Plateau, Benue, and other parts of the country, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate withdrawal of Mobile Police Force (MOPOL) officers from unauthorized assignments.
The directive was issued on Tuesday during a strategic meeting with Police Mobile Force (PMF) Squadron Commanders at the IGP Smart Conference Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja. The session focused on reviewing and strengthening operational strategies amid rising insecurity nationwide.
Expressing deep concern over the ongoing killings, Egbetokun said, “Instructions have already been given for the withdrawal of PMF personnel from non-official deployments. All commanders must enforce this without delay. A phased but firm disengagement from non-core duties is in motion.”
He further revealed plans to restructure and streamline PMF squadrons to enhance their operational efficiency.
The IGP emphasized that the PMF was originally established as a tactical response unit for emergencies, riots, and internal crises, providing critical support to state commands. However, he lamented the deviation from this mandate over time.
“Unfortunately, many PMF officers are now assigned as escorts and personal guards to private individuals and VIPs, weakening our ability to respond effectively to national security threats,” Egbetokun stated.
He decried repeated cases of misconduct by officers on such assignments, noting the damage to the Force’s reputation. “Indiscipline and misconduct will no longer be tolerated. Today marks a new chapter defined by accountability, professionalism, and a return to our founding principles.”
Effective immediately, the IGP directed that every PMF squadron must maintain at least one fully equipped, combat-ready unit for tactical operations. In addition, each squadron is required to send one unit for quarterly training on ethics, professionalism, and responsible policing.
Egbetokun stressed that commanders would be held accountable for the behavior of their personnel and are expected to uphold discipline through regular lectures, inspections, and localized training programs.
“The PMF must reclaim its place as the elite tactical unit it was meant to be—disciplined, dependable, and mission-ready,” he said.
Addressing broader national threats, the IGP highlighted growing coordinated attacks on security forces by separatists in the Southeast and terrorists in the Northeast. He called for stronger inter-agency collaboration and announced that the newly formed Special Intervention Squad (SIS) will bolster PMF deployments in high-risk areas.
“Security is a collective responsibility. Our strength lies in cooperation, mutual respect, and trust across all security agencies,” he added.
As part of sweeping reforms, Egbetokun also announced a comprehensive reorganization of the PMF, including significant cuts to VIP escort and protection duties.
“Our priority is to combat violent crime and safeguard national security. We are injecting fresh leadership perspectives and building capacity to restore the PMF’s role in internal security,” he said.
He thanked President Bola Tinubu for his continued support and acknowledged the valuable contributions of international partners in advancing police training and technical expertise.
Concluding, the IGP urged all PMF commanders to view the reforms not just as a professional obligation, but as a moral duty. He reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to protecting lives, property, and national security.
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