The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has issued a stern warning to officers and men of the command, reiterating the directive of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, that it is unlawful for policemen to stop citizens on the road and demand access to their phones. He emphasized that such acts constitute harassment, violate human rights, and will not be tolerated under his leadership.
The commissioner made this declaration during a strategic meeting with Deputy Commissioners of Police, Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), Tactical Commanders, and heads of departments. The meeting, which took place at the Lagos Command Headquarters, focused on police conduct and operational directives, as well as evaluating the achievements of the command in the month under review.
According to CP Jimoh, the directive is in line with the IGP’s ongoing reforms aimed at improving professionalism within the Nigeria Police Force. He stressed that officers must carry out their duties with respect for human dignity and ensure that law enforcement is done “with a human face.”
Addressing one of the major complaints of the Nigerian Youths, CP Jimoh addressed that “Stopping people on the road and asking them to open their phone is prohibited.” He explained that phone checks can only be carried out in the course of a legitimate investigation, and even then, such actions must take place within the confines of a police station.
He further clarified that this measure applies strictly to cases that have been formally incident and are under investigation. Any deviation from this lawful process, he warned, will be treated as misconduct and sanctioned accordingly. “No officer has the right to harass citizens by demanding access to their phones on the road,” the commissioner maintained.
The directive echoes rising public concerns about constant police stops, especially targeting young people, which have fueled distrust between the police and communities. By restating the ban, CP Jimoh sought to assure Lagos residents that the command is committed to restoring professionalism and public confidence.
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During the meeting, the police boss also warned against extortion, harassment, name-calling, and any act that undermines the rights of citizens. He reminded officers that policing is a service to the people and should never become a source of unnecessary hardship. “Every Nigerian deserves to be treated with dignity, regardless of age or status. Crime prevention must be carried out without trampling on the rights of those we swore to protect,” he said.
The commissioner also took time to highlight the achievements of the command over the past month. Among the notable successes was the arrest of Samsideen Oladiti, popularly known as Shameleon, who was apprehended in connection with two violent crimes. Another breakthrough was the arrest of Jude Onouha, a notorious vehicle vandal who disguised himself as security personnel to gain access to estates before committing crimes.
In addition, the police captured John Samuel, an ex-convict and hired assassin, linked to armed robbery and the attempted murder of a victim while dispossessing him of gold jewelry worth millions of naira. These arrests, CP Jimoh said, underscore the commitment of the Lagos Police Command to rid the state of criminal elements and secure lives and property.
He commended the officers involved in these operations, noting that while the command is tough on crime, it must remain equally firm in ensuring professionalism and accountability.
The commissioner urged Lagos residents to continue collaborating with the police by providing credible information about suspicious activities in their neighborhoods. He assured the public that all reports would be treated with utmost confidentiality and seriousness. “Security is a collective responsibility. With your cooperation, we will make Lagos safer for all,” he affirmed.
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The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for the Lagos State Command, SP Abimbola Adebisi, who signed the statement, reiterated that the directive is binding on all officers and that the command would intensify efforts to monitor compliance. She encouraged the public to report cases of misconduct or abuse promptly, assuring that disciplinary measures will be enforced where necessary.
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