The Nigeria Police Force has condemned the unauthorized use of its uniform by social media activist, Matthew Vincent Otse aka, Verydarkman.
Speaking through its social media handles, the force it strongly condemns the action and promised to launch an investigation into the video where Verydarkman featured.
It stated 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.“
The statement:
NIGERIA POLICE CONDEMNS UNLAWFUL USE OF POLICE UNIFORMS BY CONTENT CREATORS.
As Police Launches Investigation Into Circulating Video By VDM.
The Nigeria Police Force strongly condemns the unauthorized use of official uniforms and accoutrements by an online personality, Mr. Martins Otse, popularly known as “VDM,” in a video posted on his social media platforms.
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 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 appeared in police uniform a few days ago insisting he is an online crime fighter while the police fights crime online.