Court Affirms Nigerians’ Right to Film Police, Awards ₦7m Damages

Court Affirms Nigerians’ Right to Film Police, Awards ₦7m Damages

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  • March 18, 2026
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A landmark judgment delivered by the Federal High Court sitting in Warri has reaffirmed the constitutional right of Nigerians to record police officers while performing their duties in public.

In the ruling on Tuesday, Justice H. A. Nganjiwa, presiding over suit number FHC/WR/CS/87/2025, declared that citizens are legally entitled to document police activities without harassment, intimidation, or interference.

The court held that officers of the Nigeria Police Force must, at all times, wear visible name tags and clearly display their force numbers while on duty. It further ruled that security operatives have no right to seize recording devices or arrest individuals solely for filming them in public spaces.

In addition to the declaratory orders, the court awarded the applicant, Maxwell Uwaifo, ₦5 million in damages for the violation of his fundamental rights, alongside ₦2 million to cover the cost of litigation—bringing the total compensation to ₦7 million.

By granting all the reliefs sought, the court reinforced constitutional protections around freedom of expression and accountability, setting a strong precedent for policing standards across the country.

Reacting to the judgment, Uwaifo described the decision as a significant victory for civil liberties and public accountability.

“This judgment has significant implications for policing standards, civil liberties, and public accountability across Nigeria,” he stated. “The court made far-reaching pronouncements on police accountability and citizens’ constitutional rights.”

Legal observers say the ruling is expected to influence law enforcement conduct nationwide, particularly in strengthening transparency and curbing abuses associated with unlawful arrests and harassment.

The decision is widely seen as a boost for human rights advocacy, affirming that public oversight remains a critical component of democratic policing in Nigeria.