Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has taken swift action against a Supernumerary Police Officer, who donned a Spy Police uniform while making political comments on the upcoming Edo State gubernatorial elections.
The individual, identified as a politician in Edo State, was arrested for further investigations.
Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi clarified that Supernumerary Police Officers, like the individual in question, are private citizens trained by the Nigeria Police for specific security functions within their place of employment. He emphasized that they are not regular officers and do not receive a salary from the Nigeria Police Force.
Adejobi stated, "They have the right to belong to any political party of their choice and freedom of expression."
However, he condemned the individual's actions, saying, "The Police frown at the wearing of his official SPY uniform and engaging in political activities." The Nigeria Police Force has reassured the public of its commitment to professionalism, neutrality, and the rule of law.