Reps ask police, civil defence officers to wear full uniforms at checkpoints

The house of representatives has asked Kayode Egbetokun, inspector-general, and Ahmed Audi, commandant-general of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), to ensure officers on patrol and checkpoint duties wear approved uniforms with name tags.

The lower legislative chamber passed the resolution during Wednesday’s plenary following the adoption of a motion sponsored by Ibe Osonwa, lawmaker representing Arochukwu/Ohafia federal constituency of Abia state.

Moving the motion, Osonwa said the Nigeria Police Act 2020 and related operational guidelines emphasise proper identification and uniform compliance to promote accountability, transparency, and the protection of citizens’ rights.

The Abia lawmaker expressed concern that in many parts of the country, especially in the south-east and south-south geopolitical zones, some police and NSCDC officers on patrol or at checkpoints operate in plain clothes, jeans, or incomplete uniforms without visible name tags or ranks — a violation of force orders and security protocols.

The lawmaker said the lack of clear identification and accountability among officers tarnishes the reputation of security agencies and further erodes the already fragile trust between security forces and the citizens they are meant to protect.

The legislator also decried the rising cases of extortion, harassment, and abuse of power at checkpoints, saying the use of plainclothes personnel makes it harder to identify and discipline errant officers.

He added that with the festive season approaching, when many Nigerians travel across regions, the situation poses heightened risks of harassment, extortion, and attacks by impersonators.

Lawmakers adopted the motion when Benjamin Kalu, the deputy speaker, called for a voice vote.

The house subsequently mandated the inspector-general of police and the commandant-general of the NSCDC to strictly enforce uniform compliance for all personnel on checkpoints, stop-and-search, and patrol duties.

The green chamber mandated the committees on police affairs and interior to summon the two security chiefs and other relevant agencies to explain the reasons for the current non-compliance and set a clear enforcement timeline.

The committees are expected to conduct an oversight visit to affected regions and report to the house within six weeks.