By Wealth Oghenemaro
The Delta State Ministry of Justice and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Warri Branch, have cautioned the police against attempts to enforce a controversial directive targeting “indecent dressing” in the state.
In separate statements issued on Wednesday, both bodies faulted a recent public notice by a law enforcement agency warning that individuals found guilty of “indecent dressing” would face a ₦50,000 fine or community service.
Reacting to the notice, the Ministry of Justice, through its Public Relations Officer, Mr. Isharo Odafe, clarified that while the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law of 2020 criminalises indecent exposure of private body parts, the interpretation and application of such provisions lie solely with a competent court of law.
“No security operative has the power to impose any punishment on any individual without due process,” the statement said. It further stressed that the law does not authorise the harassment or punishment of individuals based solely on their clothing or appearance.
The Ministry also raised concerns about the police’s use of the term “indecent dressing” rather than “indecent exposure” as stipulated in Section 29 of the VAPP Law, warning that this mischaracterisation could result in potential human rights violations.
Meanwhile, the Human Rights Committee of the NBA, Warri Branch, described the police action as a “dangerous misinterpretation” of the law. In a statement signed by Committee Chairman, John-Larry Ojukoko Esq., the NBA warned that such directives could lead to arbitrary arrests, abuse of power, and infringement of citizens’ rights.
“For clarity, Section 29 of the Delta State VAPP Law refers to indecent exposure, which specifically targets the deliberate public display of private body parts—not general attire choices,” the NBA noted.
The association emphasised that penalties under the law must be imposed by a court and not unilaterally by law enforcement officers. It called on the Delta State Police Command to immediately review its stance and act within the bounds of the law.
Both the Ministry and the NBA urged the public to report any cases of abuse to the Office of the Public Defender, while calling on security agencies to exercise restraint and professionalism in carrying out their duties.
