The Federal High Court sitting in Warri, Delta State, has ruled that Nigerians are constitutionally entitled to film police officers while performing their duties in public spaces.
In a judgment delivered on Tuesday in suit number FHC/WR/CS/87/2025, Justice H. A. Nganjiwa declared that law enforcement officers must display visible name tags and force numbers. The court further held that officers have no right to harass, intimidate, arrest, or confiscate devices from individuals recording their activities.
The court awarded a total of N7 million in compensation to the applicant, Maxwell Uwaifo, including N5 million for the violation of his fundamental rights and an additional N2 million to cover legal expenses.
By granting all the reliefs sought, the court reaffirmed citizens’ rights to document police conduct without fear of harassment or retaliation, reinforcing accountability in public service.
Reacting to the decision, Uwaifo described the ruling as a significant victory for civil liberties and transparency.
He noted that the judgment would have far-reaching implications for policing standards and public accountability across Nigeria, emphasizing the court’s strong stance on protecting constitutional rights.
