Delta State Government Bans Bushy Beards, Artificial Hair, and Other “Indecent” Looks Among Public Servants

The Delta State government has issued a new directive banning certain styles and grooming choices among public servants as part of efforts to enforce professional appearance and discipline in the civil service.

The directive, issued through a circular from the Office of the Head of Service, outlines a revised dress code that prohibits bushy beards, artificial braided or dyed hair, long eyelashes, fake nails, and other forms of what the government describes as “indecent appearance.”

According to the circular, all public servants must appear in neat, modest, and professional attire that reflects their status in the civil service. Male staff are no longer permitted to wear bushy beards or certain traditional caps, such as the “Resource Control” and “Papas” caps. Female staff are barred from wearing artificially braided or tainted hair, long eyelashes, or fake nails to work.

The government said the move is in response to what it describes as an increasing trend of improper dressing among workers across the state. It also emphasized that senior officers are expected to lead by example and maintain decorum in appearance.

To enforce the dress code, the circular outlines specific guidelines:

For Male Public Servants:

• Officers on Grade Levels 13 and above must wear complete suits, except for uniformed personnel.
• Officers on Levels 07–12 may wear suits or a shirt, tie, and trousers. Administrative Officers must wear suits.
• Officers on Levels 01–06 must follow the same dress code unless they are uniformed staff.
• Traditional attire is only allowed on Fridays or special occasions and must be worn with approved caps. Resource Control and Papas caps are not permitted.

For Female Public Servants:

• Officers on Grade Levels 13 and above must wear trouser suits, skirt suits, or corporate gowns below knee level. All trousers must be part of a suit.
• Officers on Levels 07–12 may wear similar outfits or free gowns and skirts with blouses, provided they are below knee length and with sleeves.
• Officers on Levels 01–06 must follow the same guidelines.
• Traditional attire is permitted on Fridays or special occasions and must be worn with proper sleeves. Exposing cleavage or wearing sleeveless or spaghetti strap outfits is not allowed.

The circular also empowers heads of departments to enforce the directive strictly. Any staff member who shows up at work dressed inappropriately may be sent home to change or face disciplinary action as provided under the Public Service Rules.

“All Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Extra-Ministerial Departments are urged to publicize this circular and ensure strict compliance,” the statement concludes.
Source: The Sun