In a significant judgment strengthening civil liberties and police accountability, the Federal High Court sitting in Warri, Delta State, has affirmed that Nigerians have the constitutional right to record police officers performing their duties in public spaces.

Delivering judgment on Tuesday in suit number FHC/WR/CS/87/2025, Justice H. A. Nganjiwa ruled that officers of the Nigeria Police Force must operate within the bounds of the law when engaging with citizens, including those documenting their activities.

The court held that it is lawful for citizens to film or photograph police officers in the course of their official duties, provided such recording does not obstruct or interfere with policing operations. Justice Nganjiwa further declared that any attempt by officers to harass, intimidate, arrest, or confiscate devices from individuals on this basis constitutes a violation of fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution.

In addition, the court emphasized professional accountability standards within the force, directing that police officers must wear clearly visible name tags and display their service numbers to ensure transparency and traceability in their conduct.

The case was brought by Maxwell Uwaifo, who alleged that his rights were violated after being harassed for recording police activity. Upholding all the reliefs sought, the court awarded N5 million in damages for the breach of his fundamental rights, alongside N2 million as litigation costs, bringing the total compensation to N7 million.

Legal analysts say the ruling aligns with constitutional protections under Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantees freedom of expression, including the right to receive and impart information. It also reflects broader judicial trends reinforcing citizens’ oversight role in a democratic society.

Reacting to the judgment, Uwaifo described it as a watershed moment for policing and civic rights in Nigeria.

“This judgment 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 note that the decision could have nationwide implications, particularly amid recurring reports of harassment of journalists, activists, and bystanders attempting to document police conduct. It is expected to serve as a judicial precedent in similar cases and may prompt renewed calls for internal reforms within the police hierarchy.

The ruling underscores a growing insistence by the courts that law enforcement agencies must balance security duties with respect for citizens’ rights—especially in an era where digital documentation plays a critical role in transparency and evidence gathering.