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In a recent statement, the Nigeria Police Force declared that citizens have the right to video and photograph police officers while they are on duty. The Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, addressed this matter via his X handle on Thursday, responding to a user who claimed to have been extorted by police officers for recording a stop-and-search operation.
Adejobi emphasized that recording or taking photos of police officers on duty is not an offense. The announcement comes in response to a tweet by @Boy_Cyril, who wrote, "Sir, is it a crime to video during stop and search because I had to pay N10,000 for those officers to give me back my phone after taking it forcefully from me just now."
The Force PRO stated that the police have consistently communicated that there is nothing wrong with citizens capturing photos or videos of police officers while they perform their duties. He further urged anyone who faces harassment from police officers for recording or taking photos to report the incident to the police authority.
Adejobi provided channels for reporting such incidents, saying, "You can video or take pictures of policemen on duty. We have said it severally. There is nothing wrong with that. You can take up the case. Send an SMS to me or to our email box, [email protected]. you can as well talk to your PPRO."
This affirmation from the Nigeria Police seeks to reinforce transparency and accountability in law enforcement interactions, encouraging citizens to exercise their right to record police activities while ensuring appropriate channels are utilized in case of any misconduct.
