The Human Rights Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Warri Branch, has expressed deep concern over a recent warning issued by the Delta State Police Command regarding “indecent dressing,” describing the directive as vague, potentially unlawful, and a threat to citizens’ fundamental rights.
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In a press statement issued by the Chairman of the Committee, John-Larry Ojukoko, Esq., MCIArb., the NBA Warri cautioned the police against the arbitrary interpretation and enforcement of Section 29 of the Delta State Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law.
According to the Command, individuals found guilty of “indecent dressing” would face either a ₦50,000 fine or community service. However, the NBA Warri noted that the law specifically refers to “indecent exposure,” not “indecent dressing,” and that the enforcement of any penalty under the VAPP Law must follow due legal process.
“The term ‘indecent dressing’ is subjective and prone to abuse, which may lead to arbitrary arrests and harassment by overzealous officers,” the statement read.
Ojukoko emphasized that the Police have no constitutional power to impose fines or sentences, stating that only a competent court of law can make such determinations.
He explained that Section 29 of the VAPP Law defines indecent exposure as the intentional public exposure of private parts, punishable by a fine not exceeding ₦50,000, community service, or both—as determined by a court, not law enforcement agencies.
The Committee called on the Delta State Police Command to “exercise caution and ensure their actions align with statutory provisions.” It also warned that misinterpreting the law under the guise of moral enforcement could amount to a violation of fundamental human rights.
The statement concluded with a strong assurance that the Human Rights Committee would closely monitor the situation and resist any form of unlawful arrests or infringement on the liberties of Nigerians under the pretext of enforcing indecency laws.
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