IGP bans unapproved uniforms for police officers on patrol

By EZEKIEL OBI, Abuja –

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Usman Alkali Baba, has banned the use of unapproved uniforms or dress code by officers of The Nigeria Police Force on patrol.

“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, psc (+), NPM, FDC, 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 has ordered an immediate ban on such unapproved apparel”, The IGP said in a warning note posted on the police official handle on Friday evening.

IGP Akali Baba noted that the development is unacceptable as he lamented that uniforms, which is a means of identification, have been abused by officers who engage in improper dressing.

The development, he said, has created fear in the minds of Nigerians.

“The IGP, therefore, ordered that henceforth, all police officers detailed for patrol, stop and search, checkpoint, and other routine operational duties must be in approved uniforms for easy identification,” the police added.

He mandated police disciplinary units to enforce the new directive.

“The IGP has equally warned that all supervisory officers would be held vicariously liable in the event that personnel under their command violate this order,” the statement noted.