The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has condemned the unauthorised use of its uniform by activist VeryDarkMan.
In now-viral footage, the social media personality, whose real name is Martins Otse, appeared to have worn the uniform with the rank meant for a chief superintendent of police (CSP).
VeryDarkMan also expressed his commitment to fight against injustice in Nigeria.
But in a statement via X on Saturday, the police said it has launched an investigation to determine the source of the police gear used and the authority under which the activist acted.
The law enforcement agency also reiterated its support for creative content creation among young Nigerians but warned against misusing its symbols, emphasizing that such actions undermine its values and integrity.
“The Force unequivocally disassociates itself from this unauthorized portrayal and has launched a full investigation to determine the source of the Police gear used, as well as the authority under which he acted,” it wrote.
“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 recognizes 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.”
VeryDarkMan has always been in the news for controversial reasons since he gained fame
