A Nigerian attorney named Atanda has stirred extensive internet discussion after stating that civilians have a legal obligation to help police officers in the course of their responsibilities.

In a Facebook post, Atanda noted that when uniformed police officers pursue a criminal and ask onlookers for assistance, the public has a legal obligation to respond quickly.

He further stated that failure to assist can be regarded a criminal offence because declining to help could be interpreted as facilitating a criminal’s escape.

According to Atanda, the only exceptions to this law are people who are physically or mentally handicapped, or whose health prevents them from safely aiding police officers.

In such circumstances, citizens are not legally compelled to intervene.

The barrister used Section 42 of the Police Act as the legal foundation for his allegations.

He also reminded the public that ignorance of the law is not an acceptable justification for neglecting to act.

Read his words below: 

“When you see POLICE Officers on uniform, running after someone like this and they call you to help them catch the guy or block the road quickly for them to be able to catch the person running, you have a legal responsibility to stand up immediately without thinking twice and help them out.

If you refuse to help them out, it’s a crime under the law and they may leave the person they are pursuing to come get you arrest.

Your actions led to that person running away, which means you aid the escape of a criminal. The LAW has MADE POLICE YOUR FRIEND. For that reason, it’s a crime under the law to say you will not assist your friend when they call for your help.

The only exceptions you have is if you can prove 1. You are physically challenged

2. Mentally challenged

3. Your health is not strong enough to assist them.
Or else…

See you, see FR££ Stony beans.

Ref: Section 42 of the Police Act.

Ignorance of the law is no excuse.”

See below:

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