By Omodele Adigun
The Nigeria Police Force has announced that its operatives are legally empowered to break doors, climb rooftops, or scale fences when effecting the arrest of uncooperative suspects, warning that any attempt to obstruct such operations will also attract arrest.
The pronouncement has renewed public focus on Nigeria Police powers, particularly in the areas of arrest procedures, suspect rights, and ethical boundaries of law enforcement in Nigeria.
Deputy Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Victor Isuku, disclosed this during an interactive session at the premiere of Greatest Oath (The Rescue), a film produced by Ocean Portal in partnership with the Police, held in Benin, Edo State.
He cautioned citizens that hindrance during an arrest constitutes a crime on its own, emphasising that officers have legal cover to enter premises through unconventional means when suspects resist.
On the controversial subject of phone checks, Isuku stressed that searches are only permissible when there is reasonable suspicion of cybercrime.
According to him, “The police will not just stop you on the road and begin to search you, it is unethical. The Inspector-General frowns at such practice.”
He further reminded Nigerians that bail is free, urging them to carefully study bail forms before endorsement. At the same event, Isuku appealed for public assistance in non-monetary areas, such as providing patrol vehicles, torches, and communication tools to aid police operations.
Speaking on the wider context, Ocean Portal’s Chief Executive, Dickson Oviase, explained that the film was inspired by the #EndSARS protest, which he described as a turning point in Nigeria’s policing history. He urged closer cooperation between citizens and law enforcement to avert breakdowns in public order.
Also in attendance was the Zone 5 Police Spokesman, Tijani Momoh, who praised the collaboration and underlined the sacrifices of officers in maintaining safety across communities.
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