JUST IN: Delta State Police to Enforce Penalties for Indecent Dressing Under New VAAP Law

Asaba, Nigeria — The Delta State Police Command has announced its readiness to enforce strict penalties against individuals, particularly women, found guilty of indecent dressing in public spaces, as stipulated in Section 16 of the Delta State Violence Against All Persons (VAAP) Law of 2015.

In a public awareness poster released by the Police Public Relations Department, the command warned against dressing in outfits that expose large portions of the body, especially in schools, workplaces, and other public settings. The law, according to the statement, is aimed at promoting public decency and curbing behavior deemed inappropriate by the state government.

The notice, written in Nigerian Pidgin English for broader public understanding, cautions:

 “As you nor like wear cloth wey dey cover your body well, and you prefer dey waka go work, school or anywhere with clothes wey dey show everywhere for your body, make you hear am – Delta State government nor dey smile for that kain dressing.”

The VAAP law, which was passed in 2015 to combat various forms of violence and abuse, now includes provisions that criminalize what is described as “improper dressing.” Offenders will face either community service or a fine of ₦50,000

The image accompanying the announcement features a cartoon of a young woman dressed in a short skirt and cropped top, presumably to illustrate the type of clothing considered inappropriate under the law.

This development has sparked early debates on social media, with human rights activists and legal analysts questioning whether this enforcement aligns with constitutional rights, particularly freedom of expression and bodily autonomy.

While the police claim the move is part of a broader moral and social reform effort, critics argue that the law targets women unfairly and may open the door to harassment or abuse of power.

Further clarification from the Delta State Ministry of Justice and civil society groups is expected in the coming days as the implications of this enforcement unfold.