Chief Emeka Chales Kalu, as seasoned politician and President/CEO, ECK Foundation, has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure the safety of every Nigerian citizen.
Dr Kalu, a power engineer and an aspirant to the Abia North Senatorial Seat, in an open letter to President Tinubu, a copy which was made available to Sunday Independent, said his letter was in reaction to the recent order for the withdrawal of security to the Very Important Personalities (VIPs).
Kalu, the Director-General, Global Initiatives for Good Governance (GIGG), maintained that it is the duty of the government to protect both public officials and private citizens.
He said: “I write this open letter with utmost respect and deep concern for the security and stability of our nation.
“Mr. President, I humbly appeal to your sense of magnanimity and commitment to safeguarding every Nigerian— both public officials and private citizens—as I address the recent decision to withdraw police security from VIPs across the country.
“Your Excellency, while the intention behind this policy may be to reform and reposition our security framework, the realities on ground suggest that its implementation at this time may expose the Nigerian state to even greater danger.
“Nigeria is presently grappling with unprecedented levels of insecurity—kidnapping, banditry, terrorism, and targeted attacks by non-state actors.
“VIPs, both within and outside the country, remain primary targets due to their visibility, influence, and perceived vulnerability.”
Kalu said that with the rising wave of violent crimes, one must ask: How will VIPs, government officials, legislators, business leaders, and other high-profile individuals travel safely with their families without adequate police protection?
He stressed: “The recommendation that the Civil Defence Corps should fill this role is equally concerning. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) currently has an estimated operational capacity of about 63,000 personnel nationwide—a number grossly inadequate to cover national infrastructure, public safety responsibilities, and additional VIP protection duties.
“Their mandate and training focus differ significantly from that of the Nigeria Police Force, and stretching them further could weaken multiple layers of national security simultaneously.
“Furthermore, withdrawing police protection will have direct impacts on members of the Senate, House of Representatives, ministers, ambassadors, traditional rulers, judges, and business leaders, who remain crucial to national governance, investment credibility, and diplomatic representation.
“A sudden withdrawal of security risks not only their safety, but the continuity of government operations and public confidence.
“Your Excellency, this policy, if implemented without proper structure, timing, and alternative protective measures, may constitute a grave error—one that could embolden criminal networks and place lives at risk.
“Even advanced nations maintain protective services for their public officials given the world’s security complexities.”