In a recent statement, Fayoade Adegoke, the Commissioner of Police for Lagos State, emphasized that no police officer in the state is authorized to search the phones of Nigerian citizens. Adegoke reiterated that the Lagos State Police Force has a dedicated cyber section responsible for handling such matters, and if an officer suspects any wrongdoing, the individual would be taken to the police station for proper investigation and phone inspection.
This declaration came during the Commissioner’s visit to Melody FM, 107.7FM, situated in Iyana-Ipaja, on Wednesday. In a statement released by the radio station’s management, signed by Kunle Babarinde, the CP commended Melody FM for its commitment to disseminating valuable information to the public.
Commissioner Adegoke further emphasized that bail was unrestricted and urged the public to report any instances of police corruption. He outlined a structured approach for citizens to follow if they feel mistreated or encounter corrupt practices by law enforcement officers.
“If you feel you have been cheated by a policeman or a policeman engaged in corruption, kindly report the policeman to his DPO. If the DPO is not forthcoming, report to the Area Commander. I believe your case will be solved, but if you still feel cheated, please report to me directly. My phone number is open to all Lagosians,” the statement quoted the Commissioner.
Addressing concerns about police brutality, Adegoke assured the public that no policeman has the right to physically harm citizens. He emphasized the importance of treating the people with decency and respect, as they are the employers of the government, with their taxes supporting law enforcement agencies.
On the specific issue of phone searches, Adegoke stated, “No policeman has the right to search your phone. If a policeman suspects anything on your phone, he will take you to the station to search the phone. We have a cyber department that deals with all that.”
