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By Oscar Okhifo
The Delta State Government has banned civil servants in the state from wearing bushy beards, artificial hair, fake nails and other forms of appearance it considers “untidy and unprofessional,” sparking outrage from critics who accuse the government of clinging to colonial-era fashion codes.
The directive, contained in a circular issued on Thursday by the Office of the Head of Service, emphasized the need for public servants to project decency, modesty and professionalism in the discharge of their duties.
Under the new dress code, male civil servants are barred from keeping bushy beards or wearing certain traditional caps such as “Resource Control” or “Papas” caps while emale staff are prohibited from using artificial braided or dyed hair, long eyelashes, and fake nails.
On dress rules, senior officers are expected to appear in full corporate suits, while junior staff are required to wear shirts, trousers and ties. For women, only trouser suits, skirt suits or corporate gowns below the knee and with sleeves are allowed.
The circular expressly bans sleeveless tops, spaghetti straps, and any clothing exposing cleavage.
The government, however, granted room for traditional attire on Fridays or during special occasions, provided the outfits are clean, decent and modest.
Heads of departments have been directed to enforce compliance with the new policy. Any staff member found flouting the rules is to be sent home to change, with repeat offenders facing possible disciplinary measures.
The directive has, however, ignited debate among citizens and social commentators. Many argue that in this age, insisting on suits and ties as the dominant style of dressing reflects a lingering colonial mentality.
They question why African societies, particularly Nigeria, continue to prioritize Western corporate fashion over their own indigenous attire in official spaces. According to them, true emancipation would mean elevating African culture and fashion as everyday workplace wear, rather than restricting them to Fridays or “special occasions.”
Although there has been no official reaction yet from labour unions, critics warn that the Delta directive could set a precedent for other states to replicate, further entrenching colonial-era standards in the civil service at a time when many believe Africa should be championing its own identity and cultural pride.
The state government maintains that the policy is necessary to preserve the dignity of the civil service and maintain a respectable image for workers representing the people of Delta.