The Federal High Court in Warri, Delta State, has ruled that Nigerians have the constitutional right to record police officers performing their duties in public, setting a major precedent for accountability and civil liberties.
Delivering the judgement on Tuesday in a suit marked FHC/WR/CS/87/2025, the judge, H. A. Nganjiwa, emphasised that police officers must wear visible name tags, display their force numbers, and refrain from harassing, intimidating, arresting, or confiscating devices from citizens who record their actions.
Amid growing conversations around police accountability and citizens’ rights, legal experts and civil society groups have reiterated that Nigerians have the constitutional right to record police officers while carrying out their duties in public spaces.
According to rights advocates, the Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of expression and access to information, which extends to documenting public officials, including officers of the Nigeria Police Force, while they perform their responsibilities.
The clarification comes as more citizens rely on mobile devices to document interactions with law enforcement, especially during traffic stops, arrests, and public operations. Experts note that such recordings can serve as evidence in cases of misconduct, abuse, or disputes.
However, they also emphasized that while recording is lawful, it must be done responsibly. Citizens are advised not to obstruct police operations, interfere with investigations, or put themselves and others at risk while filming.
Legal practitioners further explained that officers do not have the right to seize phones, delete recordings, or intimidate individuals solely for documenting their activities, provided the act does not hinder official duties.
The development has sparked renewed calls for increased awareness among both citizens and law enforcement officers, with stakeholders urging better education on rights and responsibilities to prevent unnecessary confrontations.
Observers say that strengthening mutual understanding between the public and the police will go a long way in promoting transparency, accountability, and trust in Nigeria’s law enforcement system.
