Police ban unauthorised searching of phones

In a significant policy shift, the Nigeria police has barred patrol officers from conducting unauthorised searches of citizens’ phones.

This is in response to growing concerns over privacy violations and abuse of power by law enforcement officials.

This ban was announced on Thursday in a statement by Edo police spokesman SP, Chidi Nwabuzor.

Nwabuzor said the Edo state Commissioner of Police, CP Funsho Adegboye has warned officers and men to desist from this act as directed by the inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun.

He added that the IGP, Egbetokun has also directed zonal Assistant Inspector Generals (AIGs) command and formation CPs to monitor their personnel and punish erring officers.

The directive aims to uphold citizens’ rights and prevent unwarranted intrusions into their personal information. Patrol officers are now ordered to refrain from accessing or inspecting the contents of individuals’ phones during routine encounters, unless there is a valid legal basis or court-issued warrant.

This move underscores the commitment of law enforcement agencies to respect privacy rights and promote transparency in their interactions with the public. It also serves to enhance trust and accountability between police officers and the communities they serve.

The decision has been welcomed by civil rights advocates and citizens alike, who see it as a positive step towards safeguarding individual freedoms and promoting responsible policing practices.