Police to wear body camera in Lagos — Sanwo-Olu

Lagos governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said that law enforcement officers in the state will now make use of body camera while discharging their duties.

Sanwo-Olu announced the rollout of the plan on Tuesday at the Banquet Hall, Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja.

Present at the event is the Head, Law Enforcement Training Institute (LETI), Prince Ifalade Oyekan, and officers of the state’s law enforcement outfits.

The officers will be trained by the LETI.

Photos from the event were shared on social media by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Gboyega Akosile.

According to Akosile, “Sanwo-Olu said the move would improve transparency and accountability in the activities of law enforcement agencies, and put the State Government in a better position to respond to security challenges in real-time.

“Provision of adequate security, the Governor said, is a key pillar of his administration’s T.H.E.M.E.S. agenda, stressing that the initiative reflected his Government’s resolution to ensure Lagos remained secure for residents and investors.”

The Governor was quoted to have said, “I am pleased to inaugurate the use of body-worn cameras by law enforcement officers in Lagos and this is a groundbreaking move to enhance safety in the State, as well as increase transparency and accountability in the activities of our law enforcement agencies. Lagos State has strategically set the pace among other States in Nigeria to launch the use of body-worn cameras by law enforcement officers.

“The security challenges in different parts of the country are worrisome, but with proactive action, the use of modern technological tools, and a mix of well-trained and intelligent officers, we will successfully combat many of these challenges. With body-worn cameras, our law enforcement officers are better equipped to protect lives and properties, thereby, making Lagos safer for us all.”

Akosile added, “Sanwo-Olu said the launch of the body-worn cameras would take the Government a step closer towards fulfilling its security agenda, stressing that the introduction of devices to frontline security team and officers would enhance their productivity and professionalism, while also fast-tracking law enforcement process.

“The cameras, the Governor pointed out, will help the State Government check abuse of power and excesses by security personnel, while also improving the safety and accountability of officers, who will use the devices for evidence sharing and intelligence gathering.”