Brave Dickson
A one time commander of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Godknows Ipianeh has expressed doubt over the ability of the police to obey the recent directives by the Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba on uniform wearing.
The IGP had directed all police officers and men on routine patrol as well as those on stop and search duties to always wear approved police uniform.
The order had made it an offense for a police officer to carryout patrol or stop and search duty without wearing the approved police uniform.
The security expert who expressed doubt if such order will be obeyed said several orders including barring police officers on duty not to collect money from motorists were not obeyed.
According to Ipianeh. “the order of the IGP directing police officers on duty to always wear approved uniform is good but may not be obeyed.
“Compliance to the directives will enhance easy identification that will help differentiate the police from criminals.
“The name talc on their approved uniforms can also help members of the public to report the exact police officer that indulges in sharp practices.
“But my doubt is that the order will still not be obeyed.
“How many times: orders have been issued by the top police boss prohibiting police officers on checkpoints not to collect N100 from motorists and yet they are still collecting.”
He further urged the IGP to view any officer who refuses to wear the approved uniform while on duty as someone with criminal motive.
