The right of citizens to take pictures or videos of police officers while they are on duty has been reaffirmed by the Nigeria Police Force.
This declaration is a reaction to an incident that X user #Boy_Cyril reported, in which he stated that he was blackmailed by police for recording them while they were conducting a stop-and-search.
“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 they took it from me forcefully just now?” #Boy_Cyril wrote on social media.
The Force spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, addressed the matter and said that it is not illegal to record or take pictures of police officers while they are performing their duties.
“You can record or snap images of police officers who are on duty. We’ve stated it multiple times.
That is not at all problematic. You may pursue the matter. You can text me at Pressforabuja@police.gov.ng or send an email to us. Additionally, you can speak with your PPRO, Adejobi said.
“Every police officer is aware that recording and photographing them while they are on duty is acceptable,” he continued.
“Those who harass or assault others for such reasons are simply aberrant, unprofessional, and recalcitrant individuals.” Or have any of them shown you that he isn’t aware?
“Everyone is aware. It’s similar to a criminal who knows that committing crimes is wrong and will result in consequences, but he still does it until he gets caught.
