In response to escalating insecurity nationwide, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun on Tuesday ordered the swift deployment of a special squad to confront the increasing violence.
He also instructed all Police Mobile Force squadrons to maintain at least one fully equipped, combat-ready unit on standby at all times. Egbetokun gave the directive on Tuesday during a meeting with Squadron Commanders in Abuja, following fresh bandit attacks that left 21 people dead in Kwara, Benue, and Sokoto States.
In recent weeks, states such as Plateau, Benue, and Enugu have experienced a surge in violence, with numerous attacks targeting unarmed civilians.
Speaking on the situation, Egbetokun stated, “The Police Mobile Force was established as a strike unit—swift, decisive, and ready for combat. Effective immediately, all PMF squadrons are to keep at least one fully equipped, combat-ready unit on constant standby.”
He added, “These units must be prepared to assist their respective state commands in situations requiring immediate tactical response. Furthermore, each squadron is now mandated to send one unit for quarterly training.”
According to him, the training will go beyond just operational skills, with a strong focus on ethics, professionalism, and responsible policing practices.
Egbetokun also revealed plans to restructure the PMF for improved performance. “Squadron sizes will be reviewed and downsized where necessary to enhance effectiveness and agility,” he said. “From now on, PMF commanders will be held accountable for the behavior of their personnel.”
He emphasized the importance of proactive leadership, urging commanders to conduct regular briefings, inspections, and localized training to reinforce discipline, uphold human rights, and ensure operational excellence.
Reaffirming the decision to withdraw mobile police officers from escort duties, Egbetokun expressed concern that these assignments have compromised the tactical effectiveness of the Police Mobile Force.
He further warned that any acts of indiscipline among mobile police personnel will no longer be tolerated.
“As previously communicated, directives have been issued regarding the withdrawal of PMF personnel from non-authorized duties. It is the responsibility of all commanders to ensure immediate enforcement of this directive. A methodical yet firm withdrawal from non-core assignments is already in progress.”
“The focus now is to redirect our strength and personnel toward tackling violent crimes and ensuring national security. We will introduce fresh leadership, strategic initiatives, and continuous capacity-building efforts to restore the PMF to its rightful position as a leading force in internal security and a benchmark of tactical excellence.”
“The Nigeria Police Force will no longer allow the core values, standards, and discipline that once defined the Police Mobile Force to be compromised.”
“As a strike unit of the Nigerian Police Force, the PMF bears a significant responsibility to tackle armed threats, insurgency, and criminal violence with integrity and bravery.”
