Police Must Not search citizens’ phones -CP

The Commissioner of Police for Lagos State, Fayoade Adegoke, has emphasized that no police officer is authorized to search the phones of Nigerian citizens. The Commissioner highlighted that the Police Force has a dedicated cyber section responsible for handling such matters. If a police officer suspects any wrongdoing related to a phone, the proper procedure involves taking the individual to the station for a thorough search.

The statement was made during the Commissioner’s visit to Melody FM, 107.7FM, located in Iyana-Ipaja, on Wednesday. In a statement released by the management of Melody FM, signed by Kunle Babarinde, the CP commended the radio station for its efforts in providing the public with information.

Commissioner Adegoke reiterated the importance of unrestricted bail and encouraged the public to report any corrupt police officers. He emphasized the availability of channels for reporting grievances, starting from the officer’s Divisional Police Officer (DPO) to the Area Commander. The CP also extended an invitation for citizens to report directly to him if they feel unsatisfied with the resolution of their cases.

Addressing the citizens, the Commissioner underscored that no officer has the right to physically assault them. He reminded the public that they are the employers of the government, as their taxes support law enforcement. Hence, citizens are entitled to be treated with appropriate decency.

In relation to the issue of searching phones, Commissioner Adegoke clarified that the proper protocol involves taking individuals to the station, where the cyber department is equipped to handle such investigations. The statement serves as a reinforcement of citizens’ rights and a reminder of the established procedures that must be followed by law enforcement officers