Nigerian Police Suspend Postings and Order VIP Officers on Nationwide Standby

The Nigerian Police Force has suspended officer postings and ordered VIP and patrol officers to remain on nationwide standby as the security alert level has increased. This directive, issued on January 27, 2026, through a wireless message from the force headquarters in Abuja, affects officers handling VIP protection and regular patrol duties across the country.

The order includes major cities like Kano, Lagos, Yola, Makurdi, Port Harcourt, Abuja, and Enugu. This decision comes after recent instructions to withdraw officers from VIP duties, following President Bola Tinubu's order in November 2025 to remove police officers assigned to politicians and government officials.

Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun had announced the withdrawal of 11,566 officers from VIP assignments to strengthen security nationwide. The police leadership has warned officers against providing escort services without approval, with exceptions granted to officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission.

This redeployment aims to enhance security readiness and response to potential threats.