Can a policeMAN search my wife’s body?

People have asked us this question severally live on our #KnowYourRightsNigeria weekly radio programme on UNILAG 103.1 FM. A woman can only be searched by another woman[1] and such search must be with strict regard to decency[2]. However it should be noted that this is as regards to her body only, for a man can search her bag, purse, etc. Also, there is no statutory provision that a man cannot be searched by a woman but what is in practice is that a man should be searched by a man (not a woman) with strict regard to decency.

[1] section 6(2) of Criminal Procedure Act and section 44(3) of Criminal Procedure Code (S.150(1)(b)(ii) Customs and Excise Management Act 1958),

[2] section 82 of Criminal Procedure Code