The Nigeria Police Force has cautioned members of the public against the unauthorized and indiscriminate use of its uniform.
The Police Force gave the fresh warning in a statement on Saturday while reacting to the viral video of social media activist, Martins Otse, aka VeryDarkMan, in its uniform.
VeryDarkMan in the video, introduced himself as CSP VeryDarkMan and Nigeria’s number one online police. He said he is dedicated to sanitizing the social media space by using his platform to stand against oppressors, especially online vendors.
He vowed to spoil the names of offenders brought before him with evidence.
Reacting, the Police Force condemned the video released by VaryDarkMan. It also dissociated itself from the pronouncements made by the online activist.
The Police Force added that it has opened an investigation into the circulating video and the source of the police gear, as the unauthorized use of its official uniforms and accoutrements undermines the values and integrity of the Force and will not be tolerated.
“The Nigeria Police Force strongly condemns the unauthorized use of official uniforms and accoutrements by an online personality, Mr. Martins Otse, popularly known as “VDM,” in a video posted on his social media platforms.
“The Force unequivocally disassociates itself from this unauthorized portrayal and has launched a full investigation to determine the source of the Police gear used, as well as the authority under which he acted.
“It is important to remind the public that the unauthorized use of Police uniforms, insignia, or accoutrements constitutes a criminal offense, as stipulated in Section 251 of the Criminal Code Law and Section 133 of the Penal Code Law, and is subject to strict penalties.
“While the Nigeria Police Force recognizes and supports the creativity of young Nigerians in the content creation space, we strongly caution against the misuse of Police uniforms or symbols. Unauthorized use of these items undermines the values and integrity of the Force and will not be tolerated,” the statement read.
