NPF ordered that the Edo State PCRC Chairperson be suspended indefinitely

Mrs Helen Atekha Odemwingie, the Chairperson of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) of the Edo State Police Command, has been suspended indefinitely by the Nigeria Police Force.

The suspension follows a viral photo of the PCRC chairperson and other members dressed in black uniforms resembling police uniforms, complete with insignias and inscriptions, at an event held at the Edo State Police Command.

“The suspension comes on the heels of a trending picture of the PCRC chairperson and other members at a function held at the Edo State Police Command wherein the PCRC members were seen wearing black uniforms similar to that of the Nigeria Police Force, with accompanying insignias and various inscriptions,” said Acting Force Public Relations Officer CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.

“It has been noted that the act violates section 2141.1 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and section 101 of the Police Act, 2020.”

“In accordance with the law, the IGP hereby warns that anyone who adorns themselves illegally in police uniforms will be subjected to the full force of the law.” Similarly, the IGP has directed police disciplinary units, including the Force Provost Marshal, the IGP X-Squad, and the Monitoring Unit, to crack down on people who sell police uniforms, kits, and accoutrements illegally outside of police approved stores and the Quartermaster’s office.”

Helen Odemwingie, a suspected police officer.

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Non-police individuals and groups are also prohibited from wearing police uniforms, kits, and accoutrements.

The Inspector-General of Police also directed the Force Public Relations Officer to meet and collaborate with members of the Nigerian Guild of Actors to improve partnership and ensure proper use of police uniforms, kits, and accoutrements in their films/skits, he said.

“In recent months, members of the state’s police public relations officers have been accused of going too far in their relationship with the cops, particularly in their dress.

“Many come to events wearing T-shirts with police logos on them, and others go around police divisions begging for the release of suspects in custody,” he added.