The spokesperson for the Nigeria Police Force, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, has deemed it illegal and irresponsible for police officers on patrol to stop and search citizens phones.

In April 2024, the Force announced that its operatives have been banned from unlawfully searching individuals’ phones.

The Edo State Police spokesman, SP Chidi Nwabuzor, previously revealed that the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Funsho Adegboye, had cautioned officers and men not to engage in such conduct as directed by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.

He also mentioned that the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun had instructed Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General (AIGs), Command and Formation Commanders (CPs) to supervise their staff and discipline errant officials.

Despite the ban and stern warning from the IGP, there were complaints and reports of many police officers checking citizens’ mobile phones.

The issue arose after an X user, Silva Nimi, questioned the police force about why their officers keep checking phones.

Nimi said, “Bro, why are your men after young boys in the street? What did we do wrong? What did they keep in our phones "that they want to check and search for all the time?”

In response, Adejobi described the action as unprofessional but noted that many victims are hindering the force’s efforts to punish the culprits.

Adejobi wrote, “Let's have at least a scapegoat. Searching phones on the road, or without being an exhibit in a case, is not allowed and unprofessional. Recalcitrant officers won't allow us rest, but we need to expose them. However, many victims of this act only come on X or online to raise issues when they have failed to cooperate with the authority to deal with their cases.

“They betray us, compromise, and encourage the men to dwell in such with impunity. We have various experiences, and it's disheartening that the victims even beg us to pardon the men for reasons known to them. For those who have done so in my office, know I turn down their please. Let's take the bull by the horn and expose the bad ones. Thanks.

“No problem. We have a game to curb that. Heads and supervisory officers will be held responsible and sanctioned henceforth for the misdeeds and unprofessional conduct of their men.

“The IGP warned and pronounced it yesterday during the virtual conference with NPF strategic managers. It's achievable and no going back. On Monday, at least some senior officers were dismissed while some were reduced in rank upon our recommendations to the police service commission. The game has changed for good. Thanks.”