Lagos — The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has issued a firm directive prohibiting police officers from stopping citizens on the road to arbitrarily search their mobile phones. The warning, which underscores a renewed commitment to professional policing, was delivered at a strategic meeting with senior command officers.
Key Points
-
Absolute Ban on Roadside Phone Searches
CP Jimoh stated unequivocally that stopping people — especially youths — on the street to demand access to their phones is unlawful. He emphasized that such checks must only occur within police stations and under proper investigative contexts. -
Phone Checks Limited to Ongoing Investigations
According to the Commissioner, mobile devices can only be examined by the police when they have been formally identified as exhibits in an ongoing case. Any other form of phone check on the road is to be treated as misconduct. -
Professionality & Respect for Human Rights
The CP used the meeting to reinforce human rights norms, urging officers to uphold dignity and respect in their operations. He condemned harassment, extortion, and other unprofessional behaviors among police personnel.
-
Consequences for Violations
Jimoh warned that any officer found violating this directive — by conducting unauthorized phone checks on the road — will face disciplinary sanctions. -
Public Call for Cooperation
While reaffirming this ban, the CP called on Lagos State residents to continue working with the police by providing credible information about crime. He underlined that policing must not come at the cost of citizens’ rights.
Context & Relevance
-
This is not the first time the Lagos Police Command has spoken out on this issue. In January 2024, former CP Fayoade Adegoke similarly declared that officers are not permitted to search citizens’ phones on the road, instructing that suspects be taken to a station and referred to the cyber unit for any phone-related investigations.
-
The new directive aligns with broader policing reforms under the current Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, centering on respect for human rights and professional conduct.
-
Civil society groups and youth-led organizations have welcomed the announcement, though some note the real challenge lies in enforcement and ensuring that frontline officers comply.
Bottom Line:
CP Jimoh’s announcement marks a strong stance against widespread complaints of police overreach. By formally banning roadside phone searches, the Lagos State Police is aiming to rebuild trust and demonstrate a commitment to lawful, rights-respecting policing.
