Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun declared a nationwide ban on the use of Point-of-Sale (POS) terminal machines and other mobile money transaction devices within police stations and facilities. The IGP claimed that using payment devices on police property carries inherent risks, such as the compromise of confidential data and the encouragement of criminal activity.
Public Relations Officer Olumuyiwa Adejobi of the NPF Force stated in a statement that public concerns about alleged illicit transactions and collusion between POS operators and specific police personnel, as well as the fact that some commands and formations within the NPF have continued to violate the regulation, have made it necessary to reiterate the ban in order to protect the security and integrity of police operations.
“The Nigeria Police Force hereby reiterates the ban on the use of point-of-sale (POS) machines and other electronic mobile money transaction devices within police stations and other police facilities nationwide,” the statement reads, in response to public outcry over alleged illegal and illicit transactions made through POS machine operators and cooperation with some police officers.
“Despite previous directives, it has come to the attention of the Force leadership that some commands and formations continue to flout this regulation. As such, the IGP warns that any violation of this ban will attract severe sanctions on the leadership of the affected commands and formations.”
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“The IG noted that the use of electronic payment devices within police facilities poses significant risks, including the potential compromise of sensitive information, financial irregularities, and the facilitation of illicit activities, therefore, strict adherence to this directive is non-negotiable.”
The FPRO emphasised how crucial it was for officials to follow the instruction and warned that any infraction by officers or point-of-sale operators would lead to the imposition of “severe sanctions” on the leadership of the concerned commands or formations.
“The IG urges all officers and personnel to comply with this directive without exception. He warns that any police officer or POS operator found contravening this order or colluding in illicit financial transactions will face appropriate disciplinary and criminal action in accordance with existing laws and regulations. The Command/Formation leadership will equally be held accountable.”
