The Federal Government has redeployed police officers previously assigned to VIP protection to vulnerable communities in Kwara State following a wave of deadly terrorist attacks.
The move forms part of renewed security measures aimed at restoring confidence and strengthening protection in affected areas.
In a statement issued on Friday, February 13, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the redeployment aligns with intensified security operations under Operation Savannah Shield.
He explained that the decision followed recent coordinated attacks in parts of Kwara that reportedly claimed the lives of about 75 villagers, triggering nationwide concern.
According to Idris, the Nigerian Police Force has withdrawn a substantial number of officers from VIP escort duties across the country and reassigned them to frontline community policing roles.
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He said the strategy aims to boost visible security presence in exposed communities in Kwara and other North-Central states, especially those considered soft targets.
President Bola Tinubu had earlier condemned the attacks, describing them as “beastly, heartless, and emblematic of a doomed campaign by terrorists who deliberately target soft subjects.”
The statement added that the President directed security agencies to bring the full weight of the state against those responsible for threatening public peace and national stability.
Idris further disclosed that additional security personnel are being deployed to high-risk communities, with tighter surveillance and protection around places of worship and other vulnerable locations.
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening Nigerian-led counter-terrorism operations, while maintaining openness to intelligence collaboration with international partners where necessary.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
