Nigeria’s Senate is pushing back against the withdrawal of police protection officers assigned to lawmakers, raising concerns that the decision exposes them to heightened security risks. The protest follows a directive issued by President Bola Tinubu ordering the redeployment of police personnel attached to VIPs.

Senators argue that the move comes at a time when insecurity remains a major concern across the country. They insist that withdrawing their police orderlies could leave them vulnerable, especially as they travel frequently within and outside their constituencies.

The Tinubu administration has defended the directive, stating that police personnel are urgently needed for frontline security operations. The President’s initial order, issued on November 23, aims to channel more officers toward combating banditry, kidnapping, and rising violent crime nationwide.

Despite acknowledging the broader security demands, the Senate is requesting special exemptions for lawmakers. Discussions between the legislature and the executive are expected to continue as both sides try to balance national security needs with the personal safety of public officials.