The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has issued a stern warning to citizens, emphasizing that refusing to assist police officers under attack is a punishable offence. Such negligence could result in a fine of ₦100,000 and up to three months imprisonment, according to the Police Act of 2020.
Muyiwa Adejobi, the NPF spokesperson, highlighted this in a statement released on Sunday, January 12, 2024.
Quoting the law, Adejobi stated:
“Section 98, Police Act 2020: A person who assaults, obstructs, or resists a police officer in the discharge of their duty, or aids or incites another person to do so, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine of ₦500,000, imprisonment for six months, or both.”
He further explained:
“Section 99, Police Act 2020: When a person is called upon to assist a police officer who, while discharging their duty, is assaulted or in danger of assault, and the person refuses or neglects to assist, they commit an offence. On conviction, they are liable to a fine of ₦100,000 or imprisonment for three months, or both.”
Additionally, Section 42 of the Police Act 2020 requires citizens to assist police officers, judges, or magistrates in arresting or preventing the escape of suspects when reasonably called upon.
Adejobi’s statement followed the circulation of a viral video showing a heated confrontation between a woman and a police officer at a roadside. Though the cause of the altercation remains unclear, the footage, recorded by another motorist, captured the woman physically engaging the officer in a fistfight, eventually leaving him sprawled on the ground.
The NPF’s reminder seeks to educate the public about their legal obligations and promote cooperation with law enforcement for societal safety and order.
