BREAKING: Governor Sheriff Bans Bushy Beards, Artificial Hair, Long Eyelashes and Fake Nails for Public Servants

Governor Sheriff Bans Bushy Beards, Artificial Hair, Long Eyelashes and Fake Nails for Public Servants

 

 

The Delta State Government has introduced a new dress code for its workforce, banning bushy beards, artificial braided or dyed hair, long eyelashes, fake nails, and other forms of what it described as “indecent appearance” among public servants.

 

The directive, contained in a circular issued by the Office of the Head of Service and reviewed by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori during the State Executive Council meeting in Asaba on Thursday, seeks to enforce discipline and professionalism within the state civil service.

 

According to the circular, male public servants are no longer permitted to grow bushy beards or wear certain traditional headpieces such as the “Resource Control” and “Papas” caps. Female officers, on the other hand, are barred from reporting to work with braided or tinted artificial hair, long eyelashes, or acrylic nails.

 

The reviewed dress code specifies that senior officers from Grade Level 13 and above must appear in full corporate suits, while junior officers are required to wear trousers with shirts and ties.

 

Administrative officers are mandated to be in suits at all times. Traditional attire is allowed only on Fridays or special occasions and must be neat, modest, and complemented by appropriate headgear—except for caps that have now been outlawed.

 

For women, acceptable attire includes trouser suits, skirt suits, or corporate gowns that fall below the knee and have sleeves. Revealing dresses, sleeveless outfits, spaghetti straps, or any clothing that exposes cleavage are strictly prohibited. Traditional wear such as buba and wrapper or African print gowns will only be permitted on Fridays and special events, provided they are decent and modest.

 

The government has tasked heads of ministries, departments, and agencies to monitor compliance. Workers found in violation of the new dress code will be sent home to change and may face disciplinary action if they persist.

 

Part of the circular read:

“This review is aimed at addressing the unpleasant practice of improper dressing that has become commonplace in the State Public Service. Public servants are expected to uphold decency in appearance as stipulated under the Public Service Rule No. 04314, which forbids officers from appearing in any manner deemed inappropriate or immodest.”

 

The government emphasized that the policy is not only about appearance but also about restoring dignity, discipline, and professionalism in the state’s workforce.