The Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Tijani Fatai, has issued a directive prohibiting officers from searching the mobile phones of members of the public, while affirming citizens’ right to record police activities during official duties.
The directive, which was delivered during a briefing to officers, is aimed at reinforcing professionalism, protecting civil liberties, and improving public trust in the Nigeria Police Force.
Ban on Phone Searches
According to the police chief, officers are no longer permitted to search individuals’ mobile devices during routine stops or operations. Instead, he instructed personnel to focus on lawful vehicle searches where necessary and in line with established procedures.
The move addresses longstanding complaints from residents about alleged unlawful phone checks by security operatives, a practice widely criticized as invasive and prone to abuse.
Public Right to Record Police Activities
In a notable clarification, the commissioner stated that members of the public are allowed to record police officers while they are carrying out their duties, provided the officers are acting within the law and performing their responsibilities appropriately.
He added that officers themselves also have the right to record interactions with civilians, a measure seen as promoting transparency and accountability on both sides.
Effort to Rebuild Trust
The directive is being viewed as part of broader efforts to rebuild public confidence in law enforcement, particularly in Lagos, where relations between citizens and police have at times been strained.
Civil society groups have repeatedly called for reforms to curb misconduct and ensure respect for citizens’ rights, especially in the digital age where mobile devices contain sensitive personal information.
Reactions and Implications
Legal and security analysts say the clarification could help reduce tensions during police-citizen encounters and minimize incidents of confrontation. They note that clear guidelines on permissible conduct are essential for both officers and the public.
However, experts also stress the importance of proper enforcement of the directive, warning that without consistent oversight and accountability, such policies may not translate into meaningful change on the ground.
Broader Context
The announcement comes amid ongoing national conversations about police reform, accountability, and the balance between security operations and individual rights.
Observers say the Lagos command’s position could serve as a model for other states if effectively implemented, particularly as authorities seek to modernize policing standards and align practices with constitutional protections.
As of the time of reporting, the Lagos State Police Command has not released additional operational guidelines on how the directive will be monitored or enforced.
