A claim circulating on social media alleges that the Nigerian government intends to remove pockets from police uniforms to curb bribery. The posts, which have appeared on multiple Facebook pages, feature a graphic showing Deputy Inspector General of Police Bala Ciroma in uniform with the caption, “FG to remove pockets from police uniforms to tackle bribery, says FG.”
Corruption within the Nigerian police force is well documented. A 2016 survey by the National Bureau of Statistics found that 46.4 % of police officers had been involved in bribery. A more recent 2023 survey reported that bribery was more common among police officers than other public officials, with 46 % of male officers and 28 % of female officers admitting involvement.
Despite the prevalence of corruption, a reverse‑image search of the photo used in the claim revealed that it was taken on 3 September 2024 at the unveiling of new uniforms and kits for supernumerary officers, also known as “spy police.” These officers are private individuals trained by the Nigeria Police Force to perform specific security functions.
Searches of official websites—including those of the Nigeria Police Force, the Police Service Commission, and the Ministry of Police Affairs—found no evidence that the government plans to remove pockets from police uniforms. Further investigation shows that the claim has been circulating for several years; a similar post appeared on a Nigerian online discussion forum in 2017, also without supporting evidence.
The lack of any official confirmation suggests the claim is likely a hoax. Readers should be cautious about sharing or believing such information on social media. The Nigerian government has not announced any plans to remove pockets from police uniforms, and reports to the contrary are unfounded.
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