Say no to cultism, drugs, cybercrime, Kwara Police urge students

By Ahmed Olayinka

The Kwara State Police Command has stepped up its campaign against cultism and other social vices, urging students across the state to shun criminal activities and embrace discipline, integrity and responsible citizenship.

The charge was delivered on Wednesday during the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV) Security Awareness Programme for Schools, held at the Police Officers’ Mess in Ilorin. The programme brought together security agencies, legal practitioners, education stakeholders, community leaders, teachers and students to sensitise young people on the dangers of cultism, drug abuse, cybercrime and other forms of criminality.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner of Police, Kwara State Command, CP Adekimi Ojo, said the Nigeria Police Force is strengthening preventive policing through education, advocacy and community engagement to discourage youths from engaging in crime.

He stressed that schools must remain safe environments where students can pursue their education without fear or intimidation.

“Our schools should remain places where children can learn, grow and fulfil their potential without fear. The increasing threats of cultism, drug abuse, cybercrime, bullying, examination malpractice and violence pose serious challenges to the safety and future of our young people,” the police commissioner said.

CP Ojo urged students to reject cultism, internet fraud, drug abuse and all forms of violence capable of destroying their aspirations, encouraging them instead to uphold honesty, discipline, hard work, respect for others and commitment to their education.

He also commended the State Coordinator of POCACOV, ASP Ibrahim Muritala, for taking security awareness campaigns directly to schools and communities across the state.

In his remarks, ASP Muritala described the initiative as an investment in the future of Nigerian children, noting that the decisions young people make today will determine the quality of their future.

“The choices you make today will determine the kind of future you will enjoy tomorrow. Say no to cultism, drug abuse, cybercrime, examination malpractice, violence and every form of criminality. Choose discipline, hard work, integrity and good moral character,” he advised.

Also speaking, retired Superintendent of Police Ajayi Okasanmi warned students against joining secret cults, explaining that many cult groups have transformed into organised criminal networks involved in armed robbery, kidnapping, murder, political violence and drug trafficking.

He urged students to stay away from secret societies and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies.

A legal perspective was provided by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Yusuf Ali, who was represented by Obayomi Azeez Olaitan. He cautioned students against associating with criminal groups, warning that the consequences could permanently ruin their future.

“Don’t allow yourself to get lost in these groups because the punishment will take away your future. It is not worth it,” he said.

He further reminded participants that ensuring security is a shared responsibility, urging members of the public to report suspicious movements and activities within their communities.

The awareness programme featured participation from the Department of State Services (DSS), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), school administrators, teachers, students and other stakeholders, all united in promoting safer schools and crime-free communities across Kwara State.