The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has restated that no police officer has the right to search people’s phones on the road.

He addressed this firmly at the closing ceremony of the 2025 Police–Youth Dialogue Programme in Alausa, Ikeja, reminding young people that their phones remain private belongings.

“No policeman should search your phone on the road. I still stand by that order,” he said.
His statement echoes earlier clarifications made by police authorities and aligns with rights protected under the 1999 Constitution and community policing guidelines promoted by the Nigeria Police Force.

Jimoh told the audience that the Lagos State Police Command is committed to dialogue, collaboration, and youth-friendly reforms. Youth representatives, civil society groups and government officials attended the forum tagged “The Power of Partnership: Cultural Trust and Understanding Between Youth and Law Enforcement Agencies.”

He described young people as the mirror of society and urged them to stay involved in shaping public policy.

The CP praised the creativity and drive of young Nigerians, saying their energy defines the nation’s culture and economy. “The youth population is vibrant, innovative, and forward-thinking,” he said.

He noted that the dialogue has reduced long-standing tension between police and young people, especially in urban communities where mistrust has persisted for years.

Jimoh added that several reforms are underway to strengthen police–youth relations. These include the posting of information officers across area commands, the expansion of gender units for the protection of women and children, and the rollout of digital channels for reporting misconduct.

Many of these reforms are in line with global best practices recommended by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime.

Bail Is Free Initiative Takes Off in Lagos

CP Jimoh also announced the official launch of a new initiative tagged Bail is Free, stressing that no police division in the state is allowed to charge for bail.

He said he has produced complimentary cards bearing his signature to guarantee free bail services across all police stations in Lagos. The cards, he explained, will help citizens challenge extortion and report any officer who violates the directive.

Jimoh encouraged young people to know their rights and responsibilities, saying legal awareness helps reduce unnecessary conflict with security agencies. He stressed that partnership must involve respect, dialogue and consistent accountability.

“Partnership is not just a slogan; it is an active process of dialogue, respect, and adaptability,” he said.

He concluded that the Police–Youth Dialogue Programme reflects Lagos State’s long-term plan to deepen community policing, expand trust and improve public safety.

Stakeholders at the event urged both parties to keep the momentum, warning that sustained collaboration is the only way to rebuild confidence in law enforcement.

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