Dismayed at the flagrant violation of the approved Nigeria Police Force dress code by officers on patrol and guard, stop and search and other routine police operations, the Inspector-General of Police, Usman Baba Alkali has ordered an immediate ban on such unapproved apparels.
He specifically mentioned those who formed the habit of wearing t-shirts and face caps inscribed with ‘Special Forces’, ‘Commando’, ‘Gallant MOPOL’, ‘SCORPION’ and other inscriptions while on duty.
This was made known by the acting Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi on Friday, March 11, 2022.
Describing the use of such apparels as unacceptable, the IGP noted that uniforms, which is a means of identification, had been abused by the officers who engage in improper dressing.
He equally spoke against the fear the unwholesome practice had been creating in the minds of innocent Nigerians.
The IGP therefore ordered that henceforth, all police officers detailed for patrol, stop and search, check point, and other routine operational duties must be in approved uniforms for easy identification.
Consequently, the IGP said that all police disciplinary units, particularly the Force Provost Marshal, the IGP X-Squad and Monitoring Unit should ensure the strict enforcement of the directive, with severe sanctions for erring officers.
H warned that all supervisory officers would be held vicariously liable in the event that police officers under their command go against the order.
Alkali assured well-meaning members of the public of the commitment of Force leadership in promoting strategic police reforms geared towards sanitizing operational engagements, and bequeathing to the nation a professional policing system as required.