Adeyanju hails court ruling affirming Nigerians’ right to film police, demands nationwide compliance

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, describing the decision as a major boost for transparency and accountability in law enforcement.

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

He urged 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 him, police officers must refrain from harassing, intimidating, or arresting members of the public who lawfully record their activities in the course of duty.

Adeyanju 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.

The activist further noted that 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 toward enhancing civil liberties and ensuring accountability in Nigeria’s policing system.