Amid worsening security in Plateau, Benue, and other parts of the country, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate withdrawal of Police Mobile Force (PMF) officers deployed for unauthorized assignments.
The directive was issued during a meeting with PMF Squadron Commanders at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, aimed at reassessing police operational strategies in light of rising insecurity.
“Directives have already been issued concerning the withdrawal of PMF personnel from unauthorized deployments,” Egbetokun stated. “A firm but gradual withdrawal from non-core assignments is underway.”
The IGP lamented that the PMF—originally designed as a tactical response unit—has been diverted from its primary function, with many officers serving as escorts and private guards. He noted that this misuse has weakened the Force’s capacity to respond to emergencies and security threats.
Egbetokun announced that all PMF squadrons must now maintain at least one fully equipped, combat-ready unit for tactical deployment and send personnel for quarterly training in ethics and professionalism.
He also stressed that misconduct within the PMF will no longer be tolerated. “Commanders will be held accountable for their units. Discipline, accountability, and human rights must be at the core of our operations,” he said.
The IGP highlighted growing threats, including attacks on security personnel by terrorists and separatist groups, and emphasized the need for improved synergy among Nigeria’s security agencies. He noted that the newly established Special Intervention Squad (SIS) will support PMF deployments in volatile regions.
As part of broader reforms, the Police Force will embark on a major restructuring of the PMF, including a reduction in VIP escort assignments.
Egbetokun thanked President Bola Tinubu for his continued support and acknowledged the role of international partners in enhancing training and technical capacity.
He urged all commanders to embrace the reform agenda as both a professional obligation and a moral responsibility, adding, “The PMF must once again become the elite tactical unit it was meant to be—disciplined, professional, and ready to defend the nation.”
