Assistant Inspector General of Police, Aishatu Baju has confirmed the abolition of the Nigeria Police Force, NPF, regulations that previously mandated the dismissal of unmarried female officers who became pregnant while in service.
The AIG, who is the most senior female officer in the Force, confirmed this development on Wednesday during an interview on Channels Television’s, The Morning Brief.
Baju explained that all discriminatory sections of the Police Act, including Section 127, which was used to justify the dismissal of pregnant unmarried officers, had been expunged. This, she said is in line with ongoing police reforms by the Inspector General of Police, Egbetokun.
Fielding questions on the programme, Baju said, “That section, along with any other part of the Police Act that discriminates against female officers, has been removed under the Police Act 2020.
“The Inspector General of Police has also introduced the Nigeria Police Gender Policy. This is to ensure full inclusivity and equal opportunities for all officers.”
When asked directly whether unmarried female officers would still be dismissed if they became pregnant, Baju responded firmly, “No.”
Recall that the issue gained national attention in 2021 when a police corporal, Omolola Olajide, was dismissed from the Force in Ekiti State. This followed her becoming pregnant while still serving as an officer.
The dismissal, however, sparked public outrage. A development that prompted the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA to challenge the regulation in court.
The Federal High Court in Abuja upheld the dismissal. But ruled that officers were aware of the regulation before joining the Force.
Undeterred, the NBA pursued the case to the Court of Appeal in Lagos.
However , in May 2024, the appellate court nullified Sections 126 and 127 of the Nigeria Police Act, effectively putting an end to the policy.
Baju reaffirmed that the Force is committed to eliminating gender-based discrimination. She noted that NPF is fostering a more inclusive institution.