The Plateau State chapter of the Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN) has issued a strong appeal to the state’s Commissioner of Police, CP Emmanuel Adesina, urging law enforcement officers to refrain from using the appearance and hairstyles of citizens, particularly musicians, as grounds for intimidation and wrongful arrest.
The call was made by Comrade Color Humphrey Iroegbu, the PMAN Governor of Plateau State, in a letter addressed to the Police Commissioner. The letter, which was made available to journalists in Jos on Friday, highlights growing concerns within the entertainment industry over what is perceived as a targeted onslaught against musicians and creatives in the state.
Comrade Iroegbu decried the increasing frequency of incidents where musicians are allegedly harassed, detained, and branded as criminals solely based on their unconventional dress styles or hairstyles. “The association has been inundated with reports of such unjust actions, and we have had to intervene on numerous occasions to secure the release of innocent musicians wrongfully detained by the police,” Iroegbu stated.
He warned that if these actions continue, PMAN may be compelled to seek legal redress to protect its members and the broader entertainment community from what he described as “unlawful and discriminatory practices.” The PMAN Governor emphasized that these practices not only infringe on the rights of individuals but also risk tarnishing the reputation of the Nigerian Police Force.
In his letter, Iroegbu expressed deep concern over the impact of these incidents on the morale and safety of musicians in Plateau State. “It is disheartening that in this age, where freedom of expression and creativity should be celebrated, our members are being subjected to unnecessary harassment,” he said. “The police should focus on their primary duty of maintaining law and order, rather than profiling individuals based on their appearance.”
He further called on police officers and security personnel to uphold the dignity of their profession by adhering to principles of fairness and justice, and to refrain from actions that could undermine public trust in law enforcement.
In addition to addressing the police, Comrade Iroegbu also advised musicians in Plateau State to prioritize their personal safety by carrying their official PMAN I.D cards with them and remain vigilant. He urged them to be security-conscious at all times, particularly in light of the recent spate of incidents involving law enforcement.
“The entertainment industry plays a vital role in the cultural and economic life of Plateau State. It is important that our members feel safe and respected as they contribute to the vibrancy and growth of our community,” Iroegbu concluded.
The Plateau State chapter of PMAN remains committed to advocating for the rights and welfare of its members and is prepared to take further steps to ensure that musicians can perform and express themselves freely, without fear of harassment or intimidation.
