The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has strongly refuted claims circulating on social media alleging that its officers have been instructed to remove pockets from their uniforms.
The clarification came through an official statement released on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, by the Command’s spokesperson.
According to the statement, the viral claim suggesting that police personnel would henceforth appear in pocketless uniforms is completely false.
The Command described the report as misleading, baseless, and one capable of inciting unnecessary public confusion if left unchecked.
It emphasized that no such directive has been issued, either by the FCT Police Command or the Office of the Inspector General of Police (IGP).
The statement further explained that the Inspector General remains focused on reforming and strengthening the police force, not trivial issues such as pocket removal.
Security experts had expressed concern earlier in the day, warning that such rumours could weaken public trust in the police institution.
The FCT Police Command urged residents of the capital city and Nigerians in general to disregard the false report.
It also advised members of the public to always verify information through credible and official sources before circulating it further.
The Command noted that fake news has, in recent years, become a major challenge to security agencies trying to build stronger community relations.
Reiterating its commitment to professionalism, the FCT Police assured residents that it will continue to discharge its constitutional mandate of safeguarding lives and property.
The Command also called on social media users to be responsible in their online engagements and avoid amplifying baseless rumours.
It stressed that those who deliberately spread fake news capable of undermining public confidence in the police may be investigated and prosecuted.
The statement concluded by reaffirming the Command’s resolve to remain transparent, accountable, and committed to effective policing in the FCT.
Residents were finally encouraged to maintain calm, ignore the uniform rumour, and support the police in ensuring safety across communities.