The Nigeria Police Force has expressed strong disapproval of the unauthorised use of Police uniforms and equipment by any online personality..
The Nigeria Police Force has issued the statement after a video was posted by Mr. Martin, also known as Very Dark Man (VDM) on Saturday, via his Instagram handle.
In the circulating video, Martin can be seen wearing the Police uniform for his content creation, an action considered a criminal offence by the Police Force.
“The Nigeria Police Force unequivocally condemns the unauthorized use of official uniforms and accoutrements by Mr. Martins Otse, popularly known as “VDM,” in a video shared on his social media platforms. The Force wants to make it clear that they have no association with this unauthorized portrayal. An investigation has been launched to determine how Mr. Martin obtained the Police gear and the authority under which he acted,” the law enforcement agency said.
In his video, Martin identified himself as the Chief Security Officer (CSO) of the Online Division of the Nigerian Police Force, the country’s leading online law enforcement agency. He made it clear that he does not consider himself an activist and requested that others refrain from labeling him as such.
“My name is CSP VDM of the online division, the Nigeria number one online Police, I am not an activist so stop calling me an activist”. The video also showcased his personalised uniform adorned with his name and other police insignia.
According to the Police, “It is crucial to remind the public that the unauthorized use of Police uniforms, insignia, or equipment is a criminal offense under Section 251 of the Criminal Code Law and Section 133 of the Penal Code Law. Those found guilty of such actions will face strict penalties.
While the Nigeria Police Force supports the creativity of young Nigerians in the content creation industry, they strongly advise 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 further stated that, “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 recognises 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”.
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