The Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the South-East, Dr Ijeoma Arodiogbu, has expressed concerns over the recent directive to withdraw police protection from VIPs, warning that it could backfire and lead to increased insecurity.
In an interview with Punch on Thursday, Arodiogbu clarified that his own security aides had not been withdrawn, but he emphasised the potential risks of removing protection from political figures and other high-profile individuals.
“No, they didn’t withdraw my security aides. That’s one,” Arodiogbu confirmed, addressing the issue in a phone interview.
He stated, “In the House of Reps and the Senate yesterday (Wednesday), they spoke against that, because if they withdraw security aides from VIPs, it could be another level of insecurity.”
He further stressed the vulnerability of VIPs, particularly politicians, who are prime targets for security threats.
“Of course, VIPs are prime targets, especially with politicians. So, I don’t think that the IGP (Inspector General of Police) will implement all of it. Of course, it is big news if any VIP is affected by any form of insecurity. That is why it’s called VIP, Very Important Personality,” he said.
While acknowledging the bold steps taken by President Bola Tinubu, Arodiogbu also supported the need for prioritising certain VIPs when allocating security personnel. He agreed that not every person should be entitled to police escorts, emphasising that prioritisation was crucial.
“I agree with giving priority to certain persons of importance. In everything, prioritising is important. We shouldn’t be having a situation where some traders will be seen going about with 10 police details,” he stated.
He added, “Yes, we agreed that they have money. But they shouldn’t fall under the bracket or category of the elite who cogently need these escorts and security aides. That is the one that is more disturbing.”
The APC leader also thanked President Tinubu for his call to increase recruitment into the police and military, describing it as a necessary move to address the country’s ongoing security challenges.
“We also thank the president so much for calling for more recruitment of personnel into the police and army. It is all a bid to buffer all those challenges,” Arodiogbu said, emphasising the importance of strengthening security forces to protect the nation.
Arodiogbu concluded by reiterating the need for targeted protection, focusing on individuals who are genuinely at risk rather than those who may not need the level of security assigned to high-profile personalities.
“Priority should be given to truly high-risk individuals, not traders going around with 10 police officers,” he added
© 2025 Naijaonpoint, a division of NOP Media Inc. Contact us via [email protected]