BREAKING: Court Affirms Nigerians’ Right to Film Police, Awards ₦7m Damages for Rights Abuse

The Federal High Court in Warri, Delta State, has ruled that Nigerians have the constitutional right to record police officers while performing their duties in public, in a judgment widely seen as a boost for civil liberties and accountability.

Justice H. A. Nganjiwa delivered the ruling on Tuesday in suit number FHC/WR/CS/87/2025, stressing that security operatives must respect citizens’ rights and operate within the confines of the law.

The court held that police officers are обязed to wear visible name tags and clearly display their force numbers while on duty.

It further ruled that officers must not harass, intimidate, arrest, or confiscate devices from individuals documenting their activities in public spaces.

The case was instituted by Maxwell Uwaifo, who challenged what he described as a violation of his fundamental rights by law enforcement officers.

In its decision, the court awarded him ₦5 million in damages and an additional ₦2 million as litigation costs.

By granting all the reliefs sought, the court effectively reinforced the legal protection of citizens who record police actions, provided such recordings are done lawfully in public settings.

Reacting to the judgment, Uwaifo described the ruling as a significant milestone for policing reforms and civil rights in Nigeria.

“This judgement has significant implications for policing standards, civil liberties, and public accountability across Nigeria,” he said.

“The court made far-reaching pronouncements on police accountability and citizens’ constitutional rights.”

Observers say the decision could influence future conduct of security agencies and empower citizens to demand greater transparency in law enforcement operations.

The ruling is also expected to serve as a judicial precedent in cases involving abuse of power and violations of fundamental human rights by security personnel.