Real reason past attempts to withdraw police from VIPs failed– Ex-IGP Baba

Retired Inspector-General of Police Usman Alkali Baba has revealed why previous efforts to withdraw police personnel from Very Important Personalities (VIPs) were unsuccessful. According to him, earlier directives failed because they originated from Inspectors-General of Police rather than directly from the President.

Speaking in Abuja at the launch of his two biographies, Giant Footprints and A Policeman Personified, Baba expressed optimism that the latest directive—coming straight from the Presidency—stands a much better chance of being fully implemented.

He commended President Bola Tinubu for consistently working to restore the authority and operational relevance of the Nigeria Police Force in the nation’s internal security framework.

He said, “As far as my memory can lead me, this is the first time such an order will emanate directly from a sitting president. We have tried to do it as IGPs, but we couldn’t make it. Let’s see how this one will work.”

On the publication of his biographies, Baba said, “Documenting my life and sojourn and policing experience is enriching the debate on national security and policing, and stimulating policy makers, law enforcement community and researchers on dynamics of law enforcement and strategic police leadership in Nigeria.

“I suddenly realised that indeed my humble life’s trajectory could inspire others to aspire to fulfil their destinies. I appreciated that my privileged experience at the apex force leadership could spark strategic actors within the internal security space. Through my lenses and understanding and optimise opportunities that the Nigerian policing ecosystem presents, especially at this crucial period in our nation’s historical revolution, where rich knowledge and valuable experience like mine are vital assets to be shared.”

A former inspector-general of police, Sunday Ehindero, who spoke on behalf of other retired IGPs, called for the creation of state police to tackle the current insecurity in the country.

Speaking on the books, Ehindero said, “I believe the books will contribute to the contemporary discussions in Nigeria. This is a time when IGPs who are either retired or serving should not be docile. More books should be written.”

He also applauded the current drive for increase in security manpower, noting that the recent steps taken by government were not only people-orientated, but indicate that the government is a listening one.

“I refer to the recent change in the chief of defence, the appointment of ambassadors, the intended recruitment of 30,000 policemen and 20,000 military men. Even though I regret that no policeman was mentioned as an ambassador, retired or serving,” he said.

A representative of the vice president and minister of agriculture and food security, Senator Abubakar Kyari applauded Baba for an outstanding service to the nation.