Court’s Verdict Affirming Right To Film Police, Demands Nationwide Compliance – Adeyanju

Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju has praised a landmark judgment of the Federal High Court in Delta State which affirmed the right of Nigerians to video record police officers while performing their official duties.

He described the decision as a major boost for transparency and accountability in law enforcement.

In a statement issued to newsmen in Abuja, Adeyanju commended the ruling delivered by Hon. Justice Hyeladzira A. Nganjiwa, noting that it reinforces citizens’ constitutional freedom and serves as a critical safeguard against abuse of power.

“I urge the Inspector-General of Police to immediately issue a nationwide directive to all commands and formations to ensure strict compliance with the court’s pronouncement.

According to the statement, police officers must refrain from harassing, intimidating, or arresting members of the public who lawfully record their activities in the course of duty.

It stressed that full adherence to the judgment would help rebuild public confidence in the police, strengthen the rule of law, and advance meaningful reform within the Nigeria Police Force.

“Citizens ability to document police conduct is essential in a democratic society, as it promotes openness, deters misconduct, and provides objective evidence in cases of alleged rights violations.”

“The ruling is widely regarded as a significant step towards enhancing civil liberties and ensuring accountability in Nigeria’s policing system.”

PR/Garry Ochigbo