Lagos CP Reaffirms Ban on Phone Searches, Residents Question Compliance

Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, has restated his directive that no police officer in the state is permitted to search the mobile phones of residents during routine stops.

Speaking at a recent event, Jimoh stressed that the order remains in full force, declaring: “No policeman should search your phone on the road… I stand by that order.”

His remarks have sparked fresh debate among Lagos residents, many of whom argue that despite the directive, officers continue to violate citizens’ rights. Several social media users shared their experiences, including one X user who claimed he was forced to pay ₦50,000 after officers demanded access to his phone. He alleged that after finding nothing incriminating, the officers accused him of hiding “incriminating apps.”

The renewed concerns highlight the growing gap between official police directives and on-the-ground practices.