The Delta State Government has issued a sweeping revision of its civil-service dress code, warning that officers who report to work in “inappropriate or immodest” attire will be turned back or face disciplinary action.
In a new circular released by the Office of the Head of Service, officials said the review updates the March 12, 2009, directive (Circular No. HOS.15/13/74) “for the purpose of upholding decency in the appearance of Public Servants across the State.”
Quoting the Public Service Rule 04314, the circular reminds workers that “no officer shall appear in the office or anywhere in his official capacity attired in a manner deemed inappropriate or immodest.”
The statement also underscores the example senior officers must set:
“It is very important to underscore the vital role expected of senior public servants in revising the said anomaly through leading examples of appropriate dressing culture that demonstrates decorum to guide and correct subordinates.”
For male staff, the directive mandates that “all officers on GLs 13 and above should appear at work in complete suits,” while those on Levels 07–12 may opt for “a pair of trousers, shirt and tie,” except administrative officers who “should always be in a suit.”
Traditional attire such as “smart senator suits, modern caftans or native shirts with matching trousers, complemented by the appropriate traditional cap” is allowed only on Fridays and special occasions, but “resource control and papas caps are prohibited; while bushy beards are proscribed.”
Female officers on senior levels are required to appear in “trouser suits, skirt suits or corporate gowns below the knee level,” with the reminder that “all trousers must come in suits.”
The circular warns that “sleeveless or spaghetti hands are prohibited,” and stresses that “all female dressing should be with decorum devoid of any provocative exposure of cleavages,” adding that “braided or tainted hair, long eyelashes and artificial nails are prohibited.”
Heads of departments have been directed to enforce the order immediately. “Any erring officer that is inappropriately attired [should] return home, dress decently and resume duty promptly; or risk more stringent sanctions from the Accounting Officer forthwith,” the circular states.
The government said the measure aims “to promote discipline in dressing culture among Public Servants,” and urged all permanent secretaries and departmental heads to “give the content of this circular the much-desired publicity for staff guidance and strict adherence.”
