The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has refuted claims circulating online that officers nationwide were compelled to purchase a N2,000 "Attitudinal Change Handbook," clarifying that the policy only permits voluntary sales to interested personnel.

The denial, issued on Monday by police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin, follows social media reports alleging a Thursday deadline and coercion across commands.

Hundeyin described the narrative as “misleading,” stating, “The correspondence from Force Headquarters tells commissioners the book should be sold to interested officers voluntarily.” He urged any officer facing pressure to report to the Police Service Commission and emphasized that no command had enforced mandatory purchases. “If one did, it’s not the policy,” he added.

The handbook, authored by Dr. Joseph Danley, is part of a broader reorientation initiative aimed at improving ethics and professionalism within the force. The policy, dated May 28 and signed by Commissioner of Police (Training) Rashid Afegbua, allows “direct marketing to interested Police Officers” based on a recommendation from the Deputy Inspector-General.

Danley confirmed that his original N25,000 training proposal was waived by Inspector-General Kayode Egbetokun, making the seminars free. “Only those wanting the book buy it. I delivered to states, and only enthusiasts did – no force,” Danley said, denying any compulsory pricing.

The handbook’s rollout comes amid ongoing police reform efforts, but the controversy underscores lingering tensions over perceived impositions. While no formal complaints have been lodged, Hundeyin invited whistleblowers to come forward if any coercion occurs.