Lagos Police Commissioner Tijani Fatai permits citizens to record officers on duty, reinforcing transparency and banning phone searches.
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, has affirmed that residents are free to record police officers while they carry out their duties, as part of efforts to strengthen transparency and public trust.
Speaking during a television appearance on Monday, the Commissioner who assumed office in March 2026 stressed that officers have no reason to fear being recorded if they are acting professionally and within the law. He reiterated that accountability remains a key priority for the Nigeria Police Force.
Fatai also issued a firm directive to officers, warning against the unlawful search of citizens’ mobile phones. According to him, stop-and-search operations across Lagos should focus strictly on identifying criminal activity, not intruding on personal privacy. He urged officers to concentrate on security threats affecting commuters rather than targeting individuals without cause.
The Commissioner’s remarks come amid ongoing police checks across the state aimed at improving safety. While many residents have welcomed the move as a step toward openness, some observers referenced previous incidents where citizens reportedly faced harassment for recording officers.
To further enhance public confidence, the police leadership continues to promote communication channels, including dedicated hotlines such as 07061019374, encouraging residents to report misconduct and seek assistance when necessary.
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The directive signals a renewed push by the Lagos command to rebuild trust and ensure that policing aligns with citizens’ rights and modern standards of accountability.
