In a recent statement made by the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, the Nigeria Police Force has declared that Nigerians are free to video and photograph police officers while they are on duty. Adejobi made this announcement in response to a social media user who claimed that he was extorted by some police officers for videoing them during a stop-and-search operation.
The incident was brought to light by a Twitter user with the handle @Boy_Cyril, who questioned whether it was a crime to record videos during a stop-and-search operation. He alleged that he was forced to pay N10,000 to the officers to retrieve his phone, which they had confiscated.
Adejobi strongly emphasized that there is no offense in recording videos or taking photos of police officers who are on duty. He went on to urge anyone who experiences harassment from police officers for videoing or taking photos to report the incident to the police authority.
During his statement, Adejobi said, “You can video or take pictures of policemen on duty. We have said it several times. There is nothing wrong with that. You can take up the case. Send an SMS to me or to our email box, Pressforabuja@police.gov.ng. You can also talk to your PPRO.”
This announcement by the Nigeria Police Force aims to ensure transparency and accountability among police officers while on duty. It serves as a reminder to officers that the public has the right to monitor their actions through visual documentation.
With the growing influence of social media and citizen journalism, Nigerians are empowered to hold police officers accountable for any misconduct they witness while serving the nation. This new directive from the police force allows citizens to document incidents and report them to the authorities, ultimately fostering trust and strengthening the bond between the police and the people.
As the Nigeria Police Force takes another step towards ensuring transparency, it is hoped that incidents of harassment and extortion will decrease significantly, leading to a safer and more secure society.
