The Nigerian Police Force has issued a warning to Nigerians regarding the legal repercussions of failing to assist police officers in distress.
In a statement on Saturday, Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi highlighted that individuals who refuse to aid officers under attack could face a fine of N100,000 or a prison sentence of up to three months.
Mr. Adejobi cited provisions from the Police Act 2020, emphasizing that failing to assist officers is considered a serious offense.
“Section 99, Police Act 2020: When a person is called upon to aid and assist a police officer who is, while in the discharge of his duty, assaulted or resisted, and the person refuses or neglects to aid, the person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine of N100,000 or imprisonment for a term of three months, or both,” Mr Adejobi explained.
He also referenced Section 98 of the same act, which stipulates a fine of N500,000 or six months imprisonment for obstructing or assaulting an officer while they are performing their duties.
Furthermore, Section 42 requires citizens to assist judges, magistrates, or police officers when reasonably requested, particularly in the arrest or prevention of the escape of suspects.
This statement came in response to the viral video of a confrontation between a woman and a police officer, underscoring the crucial role of public cooperation with law enforcement.
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