Police Order Clean-Shaven Look for Officers, Warns of Sanctions for Defaulters

Police Order Clean-Shaven Look for Officers, Warns of Sanctions for Defaulters

A new internal directive within the Nigeria Police Force has stirred debate after officers were instructed to maintain a strictly clean-shaven appearance, with violations attracting disciplinary action.

The order, contained in a police wireless message dated April 15, 2026, and marked “Most Immediate,” was circulated within the Cross River State Command and attributed to the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu.

Issued by an Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of X-Squad, the signal was addressed to divisional police officers, tactical commanders and other senior officers, directing them to enforce the grooming rule across their formations.

According to the message, only the Inspector-General has the authority to approve the wearing of beards, a condition that applies “irrespective of medical excuse or not.”

The directive further states that all serving personnel must remain beardless at all times, whether on duty or off duty, effectively removing previously accepted exemptions tied to health or personal considerations.

“Failure to abide by this directive shall attract severe disciplinary measures,” the communication warned, urging commanders to brief their officers immediately and ensure full compliance.

The development has sparked conversations around personal freedoms and workplace regulations within the force, particularly given the sweeping nature of the instruction.

Although the police high command has yet to issue a public explanation, the move is widely seen as part of ongoing efforts to reinforce discipline, uniformity and standard appearance among personnel nationwide.

The directive reflects the paramilitary structure of the police, where strict adherence to dress codes and conduct guidelines is considered central to institutional order and public perception.