The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a directive prohibiting the use of point of sale (POS) machines “within the premises of police stations and facilities” across the nation.
The ban extends to “other electronic mobile money transaction devices,” as announced by Olumuyiwa Adejobi, police spokesperson, in a statement released on Monday.
Adejobi stated that the decision was prompted by a “public outcry on alleged illegal and illicit transactions through POS machine operators and connivance with certain police operatives.” The prohibition aims to “forestall perceived corrupt practices” and “maintain discipline within the Force.”
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The statement from the Nigeria Police Force reiterated the ban, highlighting its objective to preserve the integrity and security of police operations while preventing corrupt practices and criminal intrusion. Adejobi warned that failure to comply with the directive would result in severe sanctions on the leadership of affected commands and formations.
Despite previous directives, some commands and formations have continued to disregard the regulation, prompting the IGP to emphasise the risks associated with the use of electronic payment devices within police facilities. Strict adherence to the ban is deemed non-negotiable, with the IGP urging all officers and personnel to comply without exception.
Adejobi cautioned that any police officer or POS operator found contravening the order or engaging in illicit financial transactions would face appropriate disciplinary and criminal action in accordance with the law. Command and formation leadership will also be held accountable for any breaches.
