Police authorities order officers to stop escorting govs, senators, VIPs to southeast, Rivers

The Nigerian police has sent out a signal warning its men to not escort VIPs, politicians, others to any of the southeastern states, and Rivers.

The signal containing the information was dated “101054/05/2021” and with reference number 0900/DTS/DOPS/VOL47/812 and issued by the Commissioner of Police (DOPS), Asaba, Delta State.

“Sequel to the incessant attacks on policemen/ snatching of arms and ammunition by the proscribed IPOB/ESN elements in the eastern states of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo States and Rivers State, COMPOL DOPS directs you warn personnel that escorts of their principals to the six (6) eastern states is suspended forthwith until security situation improves. Ensure strict compliance please,” it stated.

Attacks on police and police stations have been on the rise in Imo, Anambra, Abia, Ebonyi, and Rivers lately. No fewer than 21 cops have been killed in such attacks in Akwa Ibom, too.

The attacks are mostly launched by the militia arm of IPOB—the Eastern Security Network.

A sizeable number of Nigerian policemen are serving as escorts and domestics for VIPs and politicians.