Tijani Fatai
The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Lagos State Police Command, Tijani Fatai, has directed officers under his command to stop searching citizens’ mobile phones during stop-and-search operations, emphasizing professionalism and strict adherence to policing guidelines.
Speaking in a video shared by News Central TV, the police chief stressed that officers should respect citizens’ rights while carrying out their duties, noting that accountability also applies to law enforcement personnel.
According to him, officers who act within the law have no reason to fear being recorded by members of the public.
“Anybody can record any police officer at his duty post… as long as the officer is doing the right thing, there is nothing to fear,” he stated.
Fatai further clarified that police operations should no longer involve phone searches, but should instead focus on vehicles and verifying passengers to prevent criminal activities.
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He explained that the aim of stop-and-search operations is to ensure commuters are safely using legitimate transport and not falling victim to criminal elements operating disguised vehicles.
“We are there to search vehicles and confirm who and who is inside,” he said, adding that officers have been clearly instructed to desist from searching citizens’ phones.
The directive underscores ongoing efforts to improve professionalism, rebuild public trust, and ensure human rights compliance within policing operations in Lagos State.
Tijani Fatai reaffirmed that officers must remain disciplined and focused on their core responsibilities while maintaining respect for the rights and dignity of the public.
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