It is not illegal to film or take pictures of police officers while they are on duty, Adejobi emphasized in his response to an X (previously Twitter) user who claimed that some police officers extorted N10,000 from him for filming them during a stop-and-search operation on Thursday.
According to the Nigeria Police Force, people are free to record and photograph police officers while they are in the line of duty.
It is not illegal to film or take pictures of police officers while they are on duty, Adejobi emphasized in his response to an X (previously Twitter) user who claimed that some police officers extorted N10,000 from him for filming them during a stop-and-search operation on Thursday.
"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 forcefully from me just now?" the X user @Boy_Cyril said on his handle.
The Force spokesperson, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, responded by stating that the police have previously declared that it is acceptable for Nigerians to take pictures or videos of police officers when they are in the field.
He went on to say that anyone who is harassed by a police officer for taking pictures or recording something should report it to the appropriate law enforcement agency.
You can record or snap images of police officers who are on duty, he said. We've stated it multiple times. That is not at all problematic.
You may pursue the matter. You can also contact your PPRO by sending an SMS to Pressforabuja@police.gov.ng or our email address.
Adejobi stated, "All police officers are aware that recording and photographing them while they are on duty is acceptable. Attackers and harassers of others for such reasons are simply aberrant, unprofessional, and obstinate individuals. Or have you witnessed any of them informing you that he isn't conscious?
"Everyone is aware. It's similar to a criminal who understands that committing crimes is wrong and will result in consequences, but he nevertheless does it until he is caught."
