Policemen have no right to beat, search phones of citizens — CP

The Commissioner, Lagos State Police Command, Fayoade Adegoke, has said that policemen have no right to beat or search the phones of Nigerians.

The CP said this when he featured on a programme on a newly established radio station, Melody FM, 107.7FM.

The Commissioner, who visited the station located at Iyana-Ipaja, Lagos State on January 10, 2024, was quoted in a statement issued on Sunday, to have commended the radio station for its efforts in disseminating information to the public.

While featuring on a night programme anchored by veteran broadcaster, Otunba Yemi Odunodu, professionally known as Mimi Aye, the Ila-Oragun, Osun State born Adegoke said in Yoruba language: “No policeman has the right to beat citizen. 

“You citizens are our boss.

“The government pays us through your tax. 

“So, we must accord you the necessary respect.

“On the issue of searching phone, no policeman has the right to search your phone. 

“If a policeman suspects anything on your phone, he would take you to the station to search the phone.

“We have a cyber department that deals with all that.”

On bail, the Lagos CP reiterated that bail is free, while also giving citizens clue on how to expose corrupt policemen.

Adegoke said: “If you feel you have been cheated by a policeman or a policeman engages in corruption, kindly report the policeman to his Divisional Police Officer.

“If the DPO is not forthcoming, report to the Area Commander. 

“I believe your case will be solved.

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“But if you still feel cheated, please report to me directly.

“My phone number is open to all Lagosians.”

On hand to receive the CP were the Chairman and founder of Melody FM, Prophet Sam Ojo, also known as Baba Authority; General Manager, Melody FM, M. Omisope; Publisher of Yoruba Tooto newspaper, Kunle Babarinde; and other top staff of the radio station.