The Nigeria Police Force has officially scrapped its policy that previously led to the dismissal of unmarried female officers who became pregnant while in service.

Assistant Inspector-General of Police Aishatu Baju, the highest-ranking female officer in the Force, confirmed this during an interview on Wednesday.

Baju stated that all discriminatory provisions in the Police Act, including Section 127—which justified the dismissal of pregnant, unmarried officers—have been removed as part of ongoing police reforms.

“That section, along with any other part of the Police Act that discriminates against female officers, has been expunged under the Police Act 2020,” she said.

She further noted that the Inspector General of Police had introduced the Nigeria Police Gender Policy to promote inclusivity and equal opportunities within the Force.

When asked whether the dismissal of unmarried pregnant officers would continue, Baju firmly responded, “No.”

The policy had drawn public attention in 2021 when a police corporal, Omolola Olajide, was dismissed in Ekiti State for becoming pregnant, sparking widespread outrage. The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) later challenged the regulation in court.

Although the Federal High Court in Abuja upheld the dismissal, ruling that officers were aware of the policy before enlisting, the NBA took the case to the Court of Appeal in Lagos. In May 2024, the appellate court struck down Sections 126 and 127 of the Police Act, effectively nullifying the policy.

Baju reiterated that the Force remains committed to eliminating gender-based discrimination and fostering a more inclusive environment for all officers.

For Advert, Event Coverage/Press Conference Invite, Story/Article & Other Media Services
Contact Us On WhatsApp
Send Email To: citizennewsng@gmail.com
Visit Citizen NewsNG To Read More Latest And Interesting News Across Nigeria And The World