Warri Court Declares It Legal To Record Police On Duty
Judgment Strengthens Civil Liberties
A Federal High Court sitting in Warri, Delta State, has affirmed the constitutional right of Nigerians to record police officers while performing their duties in public, in what observers describe as a landmark ruling for civil liberties and accountability.
Delivering judgment on 17 March 2026, in suit number FHC/WR/CS/87/2025, Justice H. A. Nganjiwa held that citizens are legally entitled to document police activities without interference.
The court further ruled that officers must wear clearly visible name tags and display their force numbers during operations, reinforcing transparency within the Nigeria Police Force.
Court Awards Damages to Applicant
The case was brought by Maxwell Uwaifo, who alleged that his fundamental rights were violated while documenting police actions.
In its ruling, the court awarded ₦5 million in damages and an additional ₦2 million to cover litigation costs, granting all the reliefs sought by the applicant.
Justice Nganjiwa also declared that police officers must not harass, intimidate, arrest, or seize devices from individuals recording them in public spaces.
Implications for Policing and Accountability
Legal analysts say the judgment sets a strong precedent for public oversight of law enforcement in Nigeria.
Reacting to the ruling, Uwaifo described it as a major victory for accountability, noting that it reinforces citizens’ rights and places clear limits on police conduct.
Observers believe the decision could significantly influence policing standards nationwide, promoting transparency and strengthening trust between citizens and law enforcement agencies.
