Nigerian lawmakers have strongly condemned President Bola Tinubu’s directive. This order mandates the withdrawal of police orderlies from Very Important Personalities (VIPs).

Lawmakers Condemn Selective Enforcement

During a recent plenary session, Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central) spoke about this development. He revealed his only police orderly was withdrawn early on Wednesday. However, he noted that other VIPs still enjoy police protection.

Senator Ningi criticized the uneven enforcement of this order. He insisted that the policy must apply uniformly. This ensures fairness and equity for everyone.

“This directive should be implemented across the board,” Ningi stated. He urged for consistency. Ningi questioned the application across various offices. He mentioned the President, Vice President, Senate President, Speaker, and Ministers.

Ningi expressed his dismay. “My only orderly was withdrawn,” Ningi revealed. “Yet, I still see convoys of ministers with heavy security.” He also pointed out, “I have seen business concerns, including Chinese companies, with orderlies.” Furthermore, he added, “I have seen daughters and sons of political office holders. Even singers have police protection.”

Ningi emphasized his ability to care for himself. However, he called it unjust for senators to be singled out. He urged the Senate President to act. His request was for the Committee on Police Affairs to investigate this selective enforcement. The directive’s application appeared clearly biased.

“The National Assembly should not be used as a scapegoat,” he added firmly.

Senate Leadership Promises Action

Responding to Ningi’s concerns, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin (APC, Kano North) addressed the session. Jibrin, who presided, stated that the Senate leadership had extensively discussed the issue. They are currently engaging the Presidency. Their goal is to seek an exemption for lawmakers from the directive.

He assured all affected senators that efforts are ongoing. These efforts aim to restore their police orderlies. Jibrin noted that such protection aligns with international practice for legislators.

“We have taken this issue seriously,” Jibrin affirmed. “At the leadership level, we agreed on necessary steps. These steps aim to restore your police orderly.” He expressed optimism. “I am sure we have a listening President,” Jibrin added. “He will save us from that order, which was given in good faith.”

The Senate’s intervention comes at a critical time. A national debate is growing across Nigeria. This debate focuses on balancing VIP protection. It also addresses the need to strengthen police presence in communities nationwide.