The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has condemned a recent political comment made by a Supernumerary (Spy) Police Officer regarding the upcoming Edo State gubernatorial elections. The officer’s remarks, which were made in a video circulating on social media, have sparked widespread reactions.
In a press release issued on September 11, 2024, the NPF clarified that the individual in question is not a regular officer of the Nigeria Police Force but a Supernumerary Police Officer employed by a private company. The NPF emphasized that Supernumerary Police Officers are private individuals trained by the Nigeria Police to carry out specific security functions, mainly within their place of employment. They are not on the payroll of the NPF and do not take the oath of allegiance like regular police officers. As such, they are entitled to political affiliations and freedom of expression.
However, the NPF strongly criticized the officer for making political comments while wearing the official SPY uniform. Following this incident, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) has ordered the arrest of the officer for further investigation.
The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, stated that the political comments made by the individual do not reflect the views of the Nigeria Police Force. He urged the public to disregard the statements and assured Nigerians of the Force’s commitment to maintaining professionalism, neutrality, and upholding the rule of law.
This incident has raised concerns over the involvement of police officers in political activities, especially when in uniform, and the NPF’s stance reinforces its commitment to remaining apolitical and impartial in the country’s political processes.
