Can I be jailed for refusing to assist a police officer on duty in Nigeria? What the law says
Lagos police arrest notorious crime suspect, Olori Eso.
Many Nigerians are unaware that under certain conditions, refusing to assist a police officer on duty is not just a moral failure—it is a criminal offence under Nigerian law.
Section 99 of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020 spells out the legal obligation placed on citizens to assist police officers during emergencies, arrests, or when preserving law and order. The provision seeks to reinforce public cooperation with law enforcement and emphasizes that citizens play an important role in maintaining public safety.
What Section 99 of the Nigeria Police Act Says
Section 99 of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, states:
“Any person who, being called upon by a police officer to assist in the prevention of a breach of the peace, or to arrest any person, or to assist in preserving law and order, refuses or neglects to do so without reasonable cause, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding ₦100,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding three months or both.”
This section legally empowers police officers to seek assistance from any member of the public in the course of their lawful duties, especially during emergencies. It also creates legal consequences for those who refuse or neglect to help without justification.
When Can a Police Officer Ask for Your Help?
Under the law, a police officer can request help in any of the following situations:
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When attempting to arrest a suspect, particularly if the suspect is violent, resisting arrest, or attempting to escape.
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When trying to prevent a breach of peace, such as a violent disturbance or mob action.
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When seeking assistance to preserve public order or protect lives and property.
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In situations where the officer is in danger or overwhelmed and additional support is required.
This legal duty stems from the principle that law enforcement is a collective responsibility. The law expects citizens to contribute, especially when immediate action is required and the officer is alone or in a vulnerable position.
What Constitutes a “Reasonable Cause” for Refusal?
The law provides an exception for individuals who have a “reasonable cause” for not complying. However, what qualifies as reasonable is typically determined by the specific circumstances and may include:
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Physical incapacity – e.g., due to disability, illness, or injury.
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Personal danger – if helping would put your life or safety at serious risk.
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Mental incapacity or age – such as in cases involving children or mentally ill persons.
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Preoccupation with a conflicting emergency – such as helping an injured person or being in the middle of a medical crisis.
Mere unwillingness, fear of involvement, or apathy does not constitute a lawful excuse. Citizens are expected to act in good faith and respond when it is safe and reasonable to do so.
Penalties for Refusing or Neglecting to Assist
Failure to assist a police officer when lawfully called upon—without a valid excuse—can lead to:
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A fine not exceeding ₦100,000
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Imprisonment for up to three months
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Or both fine and imprisonment, upon conviction
These penalties serve as a deterrent to willful negligence and encourage citizens to uphold their responsibility in supporting lawful policing efforts.
Why This Law Matters
Section 99 reinforces the notion that effective policing requires community collaboration. In many emergency situations, especially in remote or high-risk areas, backup or reinforcements may be delayed. In such moments, the immediate assistance of civilians can be critical in saving lives, de-escalating violence, or preventing suspects from fleeing.
Moreover, this provision also protects officers from harm by legally empowering them to seek assistance and ensures that citizens who choose to help are acting within a lawful framework.
Under the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, citizens are not passive observers when it comes to law enforcement. If a police officer on duty calls for your help in an emergency, your refusal—without a legally acceptable reason—could make you liable under Section 99. Understanding this duty is not just about avoiding penalties; it’s about contributing to a safer society where law enforcement and the public work hand in hand.