‘Presidential Convoy Too Much’: Ndume Challenges Tinubu to Lead by Example on VIP Police Withdrawal

• Senator Ali Ndume says President Bola Tinubu’s long convoy reflects Nigeria’s insecurity, arguing that a safer Abuja would allow even the President to drive himself without heavy protection.

Senator Ali Ndume has criticised the size of President Bola Tinubu’s convoy, saying the heavy security presence around top government officials underscores the nation’s deepening insecurity. He argued that a well-secured Federal Capital Territory (FCT) would make it possible for the President to move freely—and even drive himself—without endangering his safety.

“You can see even the President: the convoy that he goes about with is too much,” Ndume said during an interview on Channels Television. “Secure Abuja, and the President can even drive out himself. But when you focus on securing personalities, then ordinary people become vulnerable.”

The Borno South senator said everyday Nigerians remain exposed because the government prioritizes protecting VIPs instead of strengthening general public safety.

“So if you secure Abuja, then you can drive at night. And this is what is happening in most countries,” he added.

‘I Only Have One Orderly’

When asked whether his recommendations should apply to himself, Ndume insisted that he already keeps minimal security.

“I don’t have a police officer; I only have an orderly,” he said.

Ndume explained that even when security agencies once attached three policemen to him due to alleged threats, he rejected them, describing the number as “a big crowd.”

“I insisted that if there is going to be any attachment, it should be an orderly—and you know why? Because I’m an accused person,” he said, adding that his plain-clothed orderly serves as a witness to his movements, not necessarily as protection.

Calls for Stronger Security Infrastructure

While acknowledging President Tinubu’s recent security initiatives, Ndume said the administration must escalate efforts, especially in surveillance.

He dismissed Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s claim that Nigeria has effective satellite monitoring capabilities.

“The US has more than 8,500 satellites out there. We only have four. If we truly had that capability, why didn’t we locate the girls?” Ndume asked, revealing that 13 teenage girls from his constituency were recently abducted by ISWAP, with no update on their whereabouts.

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He also referenced the disappearance of General Uba, questioning why the government has yet to provide clarity.

Police Withdrawal From VIPs Begins

President Tinubu recently ordered the withdrawal of police personnel attached to VIPs—part of a broader security overhaul. The officers are to undergo “crash training” before redeployment to high-risk areas.

Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun confirmed that 11,566 police officers have been recalled so far, saying the move would strengthen frontline policing.

“This action is a patriotic, forward-looking, and operationally prudent step,” the IGP said during a strategic security meeting on Thursday.