The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on Tuesday expressed deep concern over the diversion of personnel from the Police Mobile Force (PMF), popularly known as the “Anti-Riot Police,” to non-core roles such as escort and guard duties for private individuals and Very Important People (VIPs).

He vowed to reverse this dangerous and unprofessional trend to restore the effectiveness of the unit.

Speaking in Abuja during a conference with PMF Squadron Commanders from across the country, IGP Egbetokun lamented that the practice had undermined the unit’s effectiveness and tarnished the image of the Force.

Consequently, he announced the immediate reorganisation of the Police Mobile Force as part of efforts to strengthen internal security and enhance operational readiness.

The IGP emphasised the need to reposition the PMF in line with its original mandate as the Nigeria Police Force’s elite strike unit, designed to respond swiftly to riots, emergencies, and violent threats.

To address shortcomings within the unit, Egbetokun announced a series of measures, including the immediate withdrawal of PMF personnel from unauthorised deployments, regular quarterly training focused on ethics and professionalism, and mandatory standby of fully equipped, combat-ready units across all Squadrons for rapid tactical support.

He directed that, henceforth, PMF Commanders would be held accountable for the conduct of their personnel and urged them to lead proactively through regular training, inspections, and mentorship aimed at upholding discipline, respect for human rights, and operational excellence.

While reaffirming the Force’s commitment to restoring the PMF to its rightful role as a disciplined and dependable tactical arm, the IGP highlighted plans to introduce new leadership strategies and capacity-building initiatives to meet modern security challenges and align with global best practices.

According to him:

“As we reflect on the invaluable contributions of the PMF, it is imperative that we re-evaluate its current role within the national security framework. Such an assessment will allow us to realign the unit’s core mandate with the broader strategic goals of the Nigeria Police Force and ensure a more effective response to modern security challenges.

“It is important that we remind ourselves of the original vision that shaped the Police Mobile Force. The PMF was established as the strike arm of the Nigeria Police Force—an elite tactical unit created to respond rapidly and decisively to riots, emergencies, and internal crises. Historically, it served as the ultimate resource during moments of unrest, providing critical support to State Commands during high-risk operations.

“Regrettably, that foundational mandate has, over time, been severely compromised. A significant number of PMF personnel are currently deployed as escorts, guards, or aides to private individuals and VIPs. While we understand the pressures driving this demand, we must not lose sight of our principal responsibilities. The diversion of tactical assets weakens our capacity where they are most needed.

“Even more concerning is the persistent misconduct by a few individuals—despite repeated efforts by the leadership to enforce professionalism on such assignments. These unacceptable behaviours have not only discredited the Force but have unfairly overshadowed the honourable service of countless officers. This must come to an end.

“Let me be unequivocal: moving forward, indiscipline and misconduct within the PMF will no longer be tolerated. Today marks the beginning of a new era—one defined by accountability, discipline, and a recommitment to our founding values.

“Effective immediately, all PMF Squadrons are directed to maintain at least one fully equipped, combat-ready unit on standby at all times. These units must be prepared to support their respective State Commands in any situation requiring urgent tactical intervention.

“Additionally, each Squadron will be required to send one unit for training every quarter. These sessions will go beyond operational proficiency, placing strong emphasis on ethics, professionalism, and the principles of responsible policing.

“As you are aware, directives have already been issued concerning the withdrawal of PMF personnel from unauthorised deployments. It is the duty of all commanders to enforce this directive without delay. A firm but gradual withdrawal from non-core assignments is underway. Concurrently, squadron sizes will be reviewed and reduced to ensure operational effectiveness and agility.

“From this moment, PMF Commanders will be held vicariously responsible for the conduct of their personnel. You are expected to lead proactively through regular lectures, inspections, and localised training programmes that reinforce discipline, respect for human rights, and operational excellence.

“We must all rise to this challenge and take collective ownership of the task of restoring the lost prestige of the Police Mobile Force. The PMF must once again emerge as the elite tactical unit it was intended to be—disciplined, professional, and always ready to defend the nation. Their continued deployment alongside the military in the Northeast, Northwest, and other strategic areas will now be further supported by the newly established Special Intervention Squad (SIS).

“Against the backdrop of escalating and coordinated attacks on security personnel—whether from separatist elements in the Southeast, bandits in the North-Central and Northwest, or terrorist groups in the Northeast—the urgency for a united, cohesive front cannot be overstated. Security is a shared responsibility. Our success depends on deepening trust, respect, and cooperation with all sister security agencies.”

The IGP also extended appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and acknowledged the critical contributions of the Force’s international partners in enhancing training and technical capacity. (Nigerian Tribune)