The Nigeria Police Force has clarified that its officers have the legal authority to force entry into premises when suspects refuse to cooperate during lawful arrests.
Deputy Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Victor Isuku, made the disclosure on Sunday during an interactive session with members of the public at the premiere of Greatest Oath (The Rescue), a movie produced by Ocean Portal in partnership with the police, in Benin City, Edo State.
According to Isuku, officers are empowered to break doors, scale fences, or enter through rooftops to apprehend suspects who resist arrest.
“The police can break down the door of an uncooperative suspect, enter through the roof, or scale the fence into his compound. Anyone who obstructs such an arrest will also be taken into custody,” he warned.
He further cautioned citizens against interfering with police operations, stressing that obstructing an officer during an arrest constitutes an offence.
On the issue of phone searches, the Deputy PRO explained that officers can only examine mobile devices if there is reasonable suspicion of cybercrime involvement.
“There are instances where a policeman can check your phone, particularly if you are suspected of cybercrime. But the police will not randomly stop you on the road to search your device, as such practice is unethical. The Inspector-General of Police strongly opposes it,” he added.
Isuku also reiterated that bail is free and advised Nigerians to thoroughly review bail forms before signing. He urged the public to support the police with logistics and equipment rather than cash, noting that funding constraints affect many institutions in the country.
Speaking at the event, Chief Executive of Ocean Portal, Dickson Oviase, said the movie was inspired by the #EndSARS protest, which he described as a turning point in Nigeria’s history.
“The consciousness of the importance of police presence became clear during that period. We must show love to the police just as they show love to the people, because the absence of police will only lead to chaos. Strengthening community policing is the way forward,” Oviase stated.
Also present was the Zonal Police Public Relations Officer for Zone 5, Tijani Momoh, who commended the collaboration, saying the project would enhance public awareness of the sacrifices and commitment of officers. He revealed that the police provided logistics and equipment to support the film’s production.
