Ihonvbere Reps Majority Leader Rejects Withdrawal Of Police Security From VIPs

Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, has raised strong objections to the Federal Government’s directive ordering the withdrawal of police escorts from VIPs, saying the insecurity along the Benin–Owan corridor makes it impossible for him to visit his constituency without armed protection.
Ihonvbere, who represents Owan Federal Constituency of Edo State, said the policy should be clearly defined to avoid exposing public officials to life-threatening risks. He noted that although he does not see himself as a VIP, his position as a national officer of the Federal Republic requires adequate security.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with a national daily, the lawmaker said the deplorable state of the road and the prevalence of kidnapping in the area made police escort indispensable.
“In my own case, I can fly into Benin City, Edo State, but I can’t move without police from Benin City to my constituency,” he said. “That road is a danger zone where kidnappers hold sway.”
Ihonvbere argued that it is standard practice globally for presidents and senior government functionaries to receive official security protection, adding that Nigeria should not be an exception.
He urged the Federal Government to clarify the scope of the directive so that it is clear who truly falls under the category of VIPs and who qualifies as public officers carrying out national duties.
He maintained that, for now, he would not travel to his constituency without proper security escort.