The Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, has stirred controversy on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) with his statement that Nigerian law permits police operatives to enter homes without a search warrant under specific circumstances.

The debate began when an X user, Somto Okonkwo, posted a video of masked police officers scaling a fence to access a property. The video also captured the officers firing shots after the occupants allegedly refused to open the gate. Eventually, the officers gained entry by climbing over the fence.

Reactions to the video were swift and heated. An X user, Joseph Tobore, argued that Adejobi’s stance contradicted Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution. He stated:
“Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution is dead in the eyes of the police spokesman. Nigeria is in trouble if Prince can support breaking the laws and claim it’s their law. Be reminded that any law that is not in conformity with the Constitution is no law. Prince, I challenge you: educate Nigerians on Section 37 and ask yourself how this statement makes sense.”

Similarly, another user, identified as ‘Great Oracle Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary,’ criticized the police’s actions:
“How’s this consistent with the force operations? Officers turned up masked, without a warrant, opened live rounds, and climbed (actually trespassed) into a property—and this is standard operation? An armed citizen would have shot this officer.”

Highlighting public mistrust in law enforcement, an X user with the handle ‘Dipo’ commented:
“Uniform is no longer proof of authority because criminals, bandits, terrorists, and kidnappers have been known to operate wearing the same uniform. Only professional conduct can validate true operatives.”

In response to the criticisms, Adejobi defended the actions of the officers, asserting that the law grants police the authority to break into homes if they have reasonable grounds to believe a crime is being committed. He stated:
“The police have the power to break into any house or place where they are reasonably convinced an offence is being committed.”

He further elaborated that such actions are supported by law, provided proper procedures are followed:
“Breaking into homes is allowed in the law, with a caution that all you need is to follow the procedure. Powers to break in and break out, not only in the East, it’s the law of the land.”
Despite Adejobi’s explanation, criticism persisted. Ben Samuel, another X user, countered:
“Your statement lacks clarity, sir. The police do not have the authority to ‘break into any house or place’ without a valid warrant. There is no difference between the actions of these undisciplined officers and those of armed robbers, and they must face strict punishment for such misconduct. Legal duties cannot be carried out using unlawful methods.”

Adejobi maintained his stance, emphasizing that the law remains unambiguous regarding police powers:
“No matter how they review the law, no amendment would strip the police of its powers. They can only review the procedure of exercising its powers. And note that not in all cases do we require a warrant to search or arrest. Read the law and understand. There are many laws guiding the operations of the police, and they are sacrosanct.”
The incident and Adejobi’s comments have reignited discussions about police procedures, citizens’ rights, and the balance between security enforcement and constitutional safeguards.ad the law and understand. There are many laws guiding the operations of the police, and they are sacrosanct.”