A multi-stakeholder webinar convened by CLEEN Foundation has underscored the urgent need for clear legal, operational, and ethical frameworks guiding the recording of police activities during operations in Nigeria. The session brought together representatives from civil society, legal experts, media practitioners, and security sector stakeholders to examine the delicate balance between national security imperatives, citizens’ rights, and accountability in law enforcement.
The webinar highlighted the growing prevalence of citizens recording police operations using mobile devices, noting that while such practices can enhance transparency and deter misconduct, they also raise legitimate concerns around operational security, officer safety, and the integrity of ongoing investigations.
Key Outcomes and Consensus Points
• Participants agreed that the act of recording police officers in public spaces is not inherently unlawful, particularly where it supports the exercise of fundamental human rights, including freedom of expression and access to information. However, it was emphasized that such recordings must not obstruct police duties, compromise tactical operations, or endanger lives.
• The discussion further noted the absence of comprehensive and clearly communicated guidelines governing this issue in Nigeria, resulting in tensions, inconsistent enforcement, and, in some cases, abuse on both sides. Stakeholders stressed that ambiguity in legal and operational standards contributes to mistrust between citizens and law enforcement agencies.
As we move from dialogue to action, the CLEEN Foundation’s program team is currently developing a comprehensive policy brief based on these discussions. This document will be shared with relevant authorities to advocate for clearer guidelines and better training programs for the rank-and-file. We want to ensure that the insights gathered from our esteemed panelists aren’t just recorded in a transcript, but are felt in the streets and stations across the country through improved police-public relations.
