The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has issued a stern warning to citizens, stating that failing to assist police officers under attack could result in imprisonment or a fine.
The warning comes amid rising concerns about the state of police-citizen relations, spurred by a viral video showing a tense confrontation between a police officer and a woman.
In a series of tweets posted on Sunday, the NPF’s Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, referenced the Police Act of 2020, which mandates citizens to offer assistance to officers who are under assault or resistance while on duty.
He emphasised the legal ramifications of neglecting to help officers in distress, pointing to Section 99 of the Police Act 2020, which makes it a punishable offence to refuse aid. Penalties include a fine of up to ₦100,000, a prison sentence of up to three months, or both.
Adejobi further stated that the punishment for individuals who directly assault or obstruct police officers is even more severe, citing Section 98 of the same Act. Those found guilty could face a fine of ₦500,000 or up to six months in prison.
Additionally, the Force’s spokesperson drew attention to Section 42, which obligates citizens to assist police officers, judges, or magistrates in arresting suspects or preventing their escape when reasonably called upon to do so.
The remarks follow growing debates surrounding the relationship between Nigerians and their police force, with citizens questioning the role they should play in supporting law enforcement.
The viral video, which reignited conversations about police conduct and public trust, has heightened concerns regarding the risks of intervening when an officer is in danger, particularly given the public’s mistrust of police due to instances of misconduct.
Despite these concerns, Adejobi’s statement was clear: neglecting to assist a police officer is not only morally wrong but also legally punishable.
This warning from the NPF calls for citizens to take responsibility in protecting law enforcement officers while serving as a reminder of the serious consequences of inaction.
The development raises a critical question for the NPF: how can they reconcile the enforcement of the law with the need to rebuild trust between the police and the public?
In a country where police-citizen relations have often been fraught with tension, this challenge remains as pertinent as ever.
