The Delta State government has warned law enforcement agencies over its threat against indecent dressing in the state, especially harassment of citizens.
It warned that no security operative has the power to punish an individual without due process of law.
Delta State Ministry of Justice (MOJ), while expressing concerns raised by public members on the alleged offence of indecent dressing, emphasised that the interpretation and application of the Law rests exclusively with a Court of law.
Mr. Isharo Odafe, Public Relations Officer, MOJ, while clarifying the matter, said a Public Notice issued by the Law Enforcement Agency warning against indecent dressing in Delta state stated that the use of the phrase “indecent dressing” instead of “indecent exposure” as provided in section 29 of the VAAP law raises concerns about potential human rights violations.
The ministry called on all security agencies to exercise restraint and professionalism in discharging their duties and respecting all citizens’ constitutional rights.
It also urged the public to report any incidents of abuse to the Office of the Public Defender in the Ministry of Justice.
“The Ministry of Justice wishes to categorically state that while the Violence Against Persons Law, 2020, criminalises certain acts that may be categorised as indecent exposure of private parts, it is essential to emphasise that the interpretation and application of the Law rests exclusively with a Court of law. No security operative has the power to impose any punishment on any individual without due process of law.
“To avoid doubt, no provision of the VAAP Law authorises law enforcement agents to harass, arrest, or punish citizens based on their dress or appearance.
“Any such action must follow proper legal procedures and be founded on lawful complaints or charges brought before a competent court of law”, Odafe clarified.
