IGP bans use of unapproved uniforms, outfits, on routine operations

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, has expressed dismay 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; who have formed the habit of wearing t-shirts and face caps with “Special Forces”, “Commando”, “Gallant MOPOL”, “SCORPION”, and other inscriptions while on duty. Premised on this, The IGP, therefore, ordered an immediate ban on such unapproved apparels.  

The Ag. Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja, CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement on Friday indicated that the IGP described as “unacceptable, the use of unapproved apparels noting that uniforms, which is a means of identification, has been abused by these officers who engage in improper dressing.” The IG further decried the fear this unwholesome practice creates 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 has ordered that all Police disciplinary units particularly the Force Provost Marshal, the IGP X-Squad and Monitoring Unit to ensure the strict enforcement of the directive with severe sanctions for erring officers. The IGP also warned that all supervisory officers would be held vicariously liable in the event that personnel under their command violate this order.

The Inspector-General of Police assured well-meaning members of the public that the Force leadership is committed to promoting strategic police reforms geared at sanitizing operational engagements, and bequeathing to the nation a professional policing system as required.