Amanze Chinonye
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has clarified that judges are exempt from President Tinubu’s directive ordering the withdrawal of police officers attached to Very Important Persons (VIPs), as part of measures to strengthen internal security across the country.
The clarification was conveyed by the CJN’s media aide, Tobi Soniyi, who said the presidential order was aimed at freeing up police personnel for frontline duties amid rising insecurity, but does not apply to judicial officers.
The issue gained public attention following reports from Taraba State, where the Chief Judge, Justice Joel Agya, raised concerns that police orderlies attached to some judges had been withdrawn without prior notice. Justice Agya warned that such action could expose judges especially those handling sensitive criminal, terrorism, political and corruption cases to serious security risks and potentially undermine judicial independence.
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Police Order Immediate Withdrawal of VIP Security Details Following Presidential Directive
Responding, Soniyi said the CJN was not aware of any authorised withdrawal of police personnel attached to judges, stressing that the exemption remains clear. He added that no similar complaints had been received from other heads of courts across the federation.
Taraba State Police authorities, however, denied withdrawing police officers assigned to judges, insisting that security personnel attached to court duties and judges’ residences were still in place, and that the presidential directive only affects personal VIP escorts.
President Tinubu’s directive, issued in late November, mandates the redeployment of police officers from VIP protection to core security operations to tackle kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes.
The presidency has repeatedly described the policy as non-negotiable, while indicating that alternative security arrangements, including the use of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), could be considered where necessary.
Prime Business Africa reports that the clarification by the CJN is aimed at calming growing anxiety within the judiciary and ensuring that judges continue to enjoy adequate protection while the federal government implements its broader police reform and security realignment strategy.
The development has reignited debate on the balance between reallocating scarce police resources and safeguarding critical state institutions, with stakeholders calling for clearer communication and consistent implementation of the directive nationwide.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
