Police Demotes Officer for Unauthorized VIP Escort

By Ekanem ASUQUO 

The Nigeria Police Force has demoted Corporal Suleiman Musa to the rank of Constable for engaging in an unauthorized VIP escort assignment.

Musa, identified as F/No 517077 and attached to the 45 Police Mobile Force, was found escorting a VIP last week without approval. Police authorities described his action as a clear violation of directives issued by the Inspector General of Police and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who recently ordered the withdrawal of police escorts from certain VIPs.

In a statement, the force said the disciplinary action was taken to reinforce professionalism, respect for the chain of command, and strict compliance with operational procedures. It added that such sanctions are necessary to maintain order and ensure officers uphold the standards expected of them.

President Bola Tinubu recently mandated the withdrawals of police escorts from VIPs as part of efforts to address the misuse of security personnel and strengthen national security management. 

In response, the Nigeria Police Force set up a task force to enforce the directive and ensure officers are not deployed for private protection without proper authorization.

The demotion of Corporal Musa is one of the earliest disciplinary actions taken since the enforcement effort began, signaling the force’s resolve to implement the presidential directive and uphold operational discipline across commands.