‘‘WE ARE NOT RECRUITING’’: DISCLAIMER STRATEGIES FOR FACE-SAVING IN SELECTED REJOINDERS BY THE NIGERIA POLICE FORCE

Abstract

This study investigated face acts and disclaimer strategies in selected rejoinders by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF). Drawing on Brown and Levinson's Politeness Theory (specifically the concept of Face), and van Dijk's model of Critical Discourse Analysis, this study reports that legitimisation, refutation, deresponsibilisation and dispelling of rumours are the core disclaimer strategies evident in the rejoinders issued by the NPF. The NPF relies on these rejoinders to perform face-saving acts amid criticisms and serious allegations levelled against them by the Nigerian public. These findings underscore the strategic use of language by the Nigeria Police Force to manage public perception, preserve institutional credibility, and navigate the delicate terrain of accountability in the face of societal scrutiny.