By CIVIL servants in Delta State will now face strict sanctions if they appear at work with bushy beards, artificial hair, long eyelashes or fake nails, following a new directive issued by the state government.
The policy, announced in a circular from the Office of the Head of Service, is aimed at promoting what government officials described as “discipline in dressing culture” among public servants.
The circular, dated 11 September, stated that all civil servants must henceforth dress in neat, modest and professional attire that reflects their rank and responsibility in the service.
“It is instructive to announce a review of the existing dress code… for the purpose of upholding decency in the appearance of public servants across the state,” the document read.
For male officers, bushy beards and the popular “Resource Control” and “Papas” caps are now banned. Senior officers (GL 13 and above) are expected to appear in full suits, while those in junior ranks must wear trousers, shirts and ties. Traditional attire will only be permitted on Fridays or special occasions, provided it is “clean, decent and modest.”
Female officers face even tougher restrictions. They are no longer allowed to wear braided or dyed hair, false eyelashes or artificial nails. Corporate gowns, trouser suits or skirt suits below the knee with proper sleeves are considered acceptable. Sleeveless dresses, spaghetti straps or clothing exposing cleavage are prohibited.
“All female dressing should be with decorum, devoid of any provocative exposure of cleavage,” the circular stressed.
Department heads have been instructed to monitor compliance and send home any officer who arrives in violation of the dress code until they change into appropriate attire. Offenders risk disciplinary action under Public Service Rule No. 04314, which forbids appearing in “a manner deemed inappropriate or immodest.”
The circular further underscored the “vital role expected of senior public servants in leading examples of appropriate dressing culture that demonstrates decorum to guide and correct subordinates.”
While government insists the move will uphold decency and restore professionalism in the civil service, the new rules are expected to spark debate among workers, some of whom may see the ban on personal grooming and styling choices as excessive.
The government, however, has maintained that the revised code is final and will be strictly enforced to reflect the values of the Delta State public service.
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