The Federal High Court sitting in Warri, Delta State, has delivered a landmark judgment affirming the constitutional right of Nigerians to film police officers while performing their duties in public.
In a ruling delivered on Tuesday in suit number FHC/WR/CS/87/2025, Justice H. A. Nganjiwa declared that law enforcement officers must operate within clearly defined standards of accountability. The court held that police personnel are required to wear visible name tags, display their force numbers, and must not harass, intimidate, arrest, or confiscate devices from citizens documenting their activities.
The case was brought by Maxwell Uwaifo, who challenged the violation of his fundamental rights. In its judgment, the court awarded him ₦5 million in damages, along with an additional ₦2 million to cover legal costs, bringing the total compensation to ₦7 million.
By granting all the reliefs sought, the court reinforced citizens’ rights to freely document police conduct in public spaces without fear of intimidation or retaliation.
Reacting to the verdict, Uwaifo described the ruling as a significant milestone for civil liberties and law enforcement accountability in Nigeria.
“This judgment has far-reaching implications for policing standards, civil liberties, and public accountability across Nigeria,” he said in a statement issued to journalists.
Legal observers say the decision marks a pivotal moment in strengthening transparency and reinforcing constitutional protections in the country.
ELIJAH ADEYEMI
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