Universal Times

In a significant move towards promoting gender equality and inclusivity, the Nigeria Police Force has abolished the regulation that mandated the dismissal of unmarried female officers who became pregnant while in service ¹. This development is a major victory for women's rights and a step towards creating a more equitable work environment.

The abolition of the rule was confirmed by Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Aishatu Baju, during an interview on Channels Television's The Morning Brief ². Baju explained that the discriminatory sections of the Police Act, including Section 127, have been removed under the Police Act 2020 as part of ongoing police reforms.

*Background of the Rule*

The rule gained national attention in 2021 when a police corporal, Omolola Olajide, was dismissed from the Force in Ekiti State after she became pregnant ³. The move sparked public outrage, prompting the Nigerian Bar Association to challenge the regulation in court. Although the Federal High Court upheld the dismissal, the Court of Appeal overturned it in May 2024, nullifying Sections 126 and 127 of the Police Act ⁴.

*Implications of the Abolition*

The abolition of the rule marks a significant shift towards promoting gender equality and inclusivity within the Nigeria Police Force. It ensures that unmarried female officers who become pregnant will no longer face dismissal, but rather will be treated with dignity and respect ⁵. The move is also expected to boost morale and promote a more inclusive work environment within the Force.

*Keywords:* Nigeria Police Force, unmarried pregnant officers, gender equality, inclusivity, police reforms.