Police Warn Against Resisting Public Officers, Cite Legal Penalties

Kehinde Fajobi

The Nigerian Police Force has issued a strong warning to citizens, urging compliance with public officers carrying out their lawful duties.

In a statement signed by Force Public Relations Officer Muyiwa Adejobi and shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, the police highlighted legal provisions in the Criminal Code Act and the Police Act 2020, detailing penalties for obstruction or resistance.

Adejobi cited Section 197 of the Criminal Code Act, which prescribes up to two years imprisonment for obstructing or resisting a public officer in the discharge of their duties.

He also referenced Section 42 of the Police Act 2020, which mandates citizens to assist judges, magistrates, police officers, or other authorised persons in apprehending or preventing the escape of suspects.

Further penalties include those outlined in Sections 98 and 99 of the Police Act 2020.

“A person who assaults, obstructs, or resists a police officer in the discharge of duty, or incites others to do so, risks a fine of ₦500,000 or six months imprisonment, or both,” Adejobi stated.

Additionally, Section 99 stipulates that refusing to assist an officer in danger could result in a ₦100,000 fine, three months imprisonment, or both.

The police emphasised that these legal provisions aim to reinforce law enforcement efforts and protect officers while ensuring public cooperation in maintaining order.

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