Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has created a Special Protection Unit (SPU) for high-profile Nigerians. He announced the move days after scrapping mobile police protection previously assigned to VIPs. The SPU aims to guard politicians, business leaders, and other elite individuals across the country. Egbetokun introduced the unit during a ceremony in Niger State, drawing public concern about priorities. The police say the unit responds to rising security threats, including kidnappings, terrorism, and banditry.
Hassan Sani, who heads the SPU in Niger State, said the unit offers specialized, intelligence-based protection.
Critics Say Move Favors Elites Over Common Citizens
Egbetokun had earlier removed mobile police from VIPs to shift focus to community safety and patrol duties. Now, critics say the SPU could redirect police resources back to serving the elite, ignoring public needs. Security experts warn the move may increase inequality in a country already battling widespread insecurity.
The SPU announcement came during the graduation of 50 officers from SPU Base 23 in Minna. Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago also spoke at the event through his press secretary, Bologi Ibrahim.
Niger State Backs Police with Patrol Vehicles
Bago revealed the state government bought 25 new patrol vehicles for the Niger State police command.
“These vehicles will improve patrols in major towns and support SPU activities,” Bago’s office stated.
The vehicles, a mix of patrol and operational units, will deploy immediately to key security areas. This support reflects a growing trend of states helping federal police amid budget and manpower challenges.
While the IGP has not released national guidelines for the SPU, insiders expect officers to receive special training. Sani said the unit will focus on proactive, intelligence-driven protection without draining regular police resources.
Experts Offer Mixed Reactions to SPU Rollout
Security analysts disagree on the SPU’s impact. Some call it a smart response to evolving threats. Others argue the unit favors elites while average Nigerians remain exposed to danger.
“In many areas, people don’t even have basic police presence,” said one Abuja-based security expert.
The SPU could stretch limited police resources even thinner, analysts warn. Still, the police say the unit will fill a growing demand for elite security nationwide. As Nigeria faces growing security threats, the SPU shows the police’s focus on protecting high-risk figures. But whether this shift balances elite safety with public security remains uncertain.
