The Nigeria Police Force warns that refusing to assist officers in danger or under assault is a punishable offence under Section 99 of the Police Act 2020. Offenders risk a ₦100,000 fine, three months’ imprisonment, or both. The law emphasizes citizens’ duty to aid law enforcement in critical situations.
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has emphasized that refusing to assist an officer in danger is a punishable offence under Nigerian law. According to Force spokesperson ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, such refusal violates Section 99 of the Police Act 2020, which mandates citizens to assist officers facing assault or resistance while on duty.
In a statement shared on the NPF's X page, Adejobi clarified that failing to aid an officer when called upon could result in a fine of ₦100,000, three months’ imprisonment, or both upon conviction. The post, titled "Know The Law and Be Guided," highlighted recent incidents where officers faced physical confrontations, including a viral video of a policeman clashing with a woman and another altercation involving two young men at a checkpoint.
Adejobi’s message also reiterated that obstructing or resisting police officers in their lawful duties is a serious crime, urging Nigerians to respect the law and support law enforcement efforts. The NPF aims to educate the public on their legal responsibilities to ensure safety and uphold order across the nation.
The clarification aligns with the Police Act's broader mission to foster collaboration between citizens and law enforcement, emphasizing accountability for those who neglect their civic duties in such critical situations.
