#KnowYourRight: “You Have The Right To Search A Policeman Before He Searches You – NPF

The Nigerian Police Force, NPF, has stated that Nigerians have the right to search their officers before allowing them to carry out search on them.

This was made known by Force Public Relations Officer, Frank Mba, via a statement on Monday titled, ‘(Part 2) Tips For Safe And Cordial Conduct During An Arrest.’

According to NPF, Nigerians also have the right to ask why they are being arrested before surrendering themselves to arrests.

“You may politely request that the officer be searched before searching you. Often times, this helps to allay fears that someone may be trying to plant incriminating items on you or implicate you in any other way.

“Demand to see the warrant of arrest where necessary (note, however, that not all invitation/arrest requires a warrant). As a matter of fact, under our laws, the Police have wide powers to arrest without warrant in many circumstances.

“Politely request that the officers allow you inform a trusted friend or a family member or a lawyer soon after your arrest in order to avoid unnecessary apprehension as to your whereabouts or safety.

“If the arrest requires the officer to conduct a search on you, demand to see the Search Warrant and comply with all legitimate instruction during the search (note that there are a lot of instances where a policeman can search you with or without warrant).”