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PRESS RELEASE

POCACOV MEDIA ADVOCACY

On 13th August 2025 – The Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), as part of its continuous commitment to preventive policing, featured on Police Diary on the Network Service of Radio Nigeria in a special edition themed “Examining the Impacts of POCACOV So Far.”

The live radio segment, which aired from 8:30 to 9:00am, was hosted by Princess Akporaro of Radio Nigeria and featured the POCACOV National Coordinator, ACP Olabisi Okuwobi, who shared insights on the initiative’s journey, achievements, and ongoing strategies to address cultism, drug abuse, gender-based violence, cybercrime, and other societal vices.

Listeners across Nigeria were able to participate by sending text and WhatsApp messages to the programme lines, as well as engaging through studio calls and the official Police Diary on Radio Nigeria Network page.

ACP Okuwobi reiterated the Inspector-General of Police’s unwavering support for preventinve policing through community engagement, advocacy, campaign , education and a prople centered policing, stressing the importance of sustained awareness, mentorship, and collaboration among stakeholders in reducing crime and promoting national safety.

The programme was also streamed live via www.radionigeria.gov.ng, allowing for a broader reach beyond traditional broadcast audiences.

POCACOV continues to leverage strategic media advocacy platforms like Police Diary to connect with the public, inspire proactive action, and drive conversations that foster safer, stronger communities across Nigeria.

You can get updates on POCACOV Media via:
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WORLD YOUTH DAY 2025 MESSAGE

Today, as the world marks World Youth Day 2025, the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV) reaffirms its commitment to placing young people at the heart of its mandate.

Speaking in line with the vision of the Inspector General of Police, the National Coordinator of POCACOV, ACP Olabisi Okuwobi, described the youth as the driving force of national growth and a vital partner in building safer communities.

“POCACOV is youth-centered because we recognize the power, creativity, and resilience of young Nigerians. Our mission is to guide, mentor, and support them to channel their energy towards innovation, education, and community development, while shunning crime, cultism, drug abuse, and other vices,” ACP Okuwobi stated.

She called on all stakeholdersl, parents, educators, community leaders, and policymakers to work together in creating opportunities that empower young people to become agents of positive change.

POCACOV urges every young person to embrace values that foster peace, unity, and progress, remembering that the future of Nigeria rests in their hands.

POCACOV: It’s all about you….

POCACOV National Coordinator Leads Advocacy Visit to National Council of Women Societies (NCWS)

As part of its ongoing stakeholder engagement strategy aimed at building sustainable partnerships and promoting preventive policing through community participation, the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), an initiative of the Nigeria Police Force, paid an advocacy visit to the National Council of Women Societies (NCWS) on 7th August 2025.

The visit was led by the National Coordinator of POCACOV, ACP Olabisi Okuwobi, accompanied by key members of the POCACOV team. The delegation was warmly received by Princess Edna DD Azura, National President of NCWS Nigeria; Hon. Inumidun Taiwo Idehew, National PRO 2; and Patience Paul Buba, Personal Assistant to the National President.

Discussions during the meeting focused on possible areas of collaboration and synergy between both parties, particularly in the area of crime prevention, creating alternative pathways away from crime, social vices, and the rehabilitation and reintegration of women and youth involved in crime or affected by social vices. The conversation also touched on social reorientation, community education, and amplifying preventive messages across grassroots platforms.
ACP Olabisi Okuwobi reiterated that the goals of POCACOV are hinged on the vision of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, who is committed to promoting community-oriented policing strategies that focus on engagement, education, and proactive intervention. She emphasized the crucial role of women as community influencers, peacebuilders, and frontline advocates in achieving long-lasting change.

In her response, Princess Edna DD Azura expressed heartfelt appreciation for the visit and commended the proactive direction of the Nigeria Police Force through the POCACOV initiative. She described the meeting as timely, inspiring, and aligned with the core values of NCWS in protecting families and promoting positive societal values. She assured the POCACOV team of NCWS’s full support and willingness to collaborate on impactful programs and advocacy campaigns.

Dr. Emmanuel Iheagwazi Appointed as POCACOV Ambassador by Nigeria Police Force

Today, 4th August 2025, Dr. Emmanuel Iheagwazi, A distinguished Nigerian industrialist, seasoned entrepreneur, and God-fearing philanthropist, renowned for his visionary leadership in the agriculture, petroleum, and solid minerals sectors is formally appointed as an Ambassador of the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV).
This appointment is in line with the vision of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, who has consistently championed preventive policing, community engagement, and collaborative partnerships as a strategic approach to addressing crime and social vices in Nigeria.

In a letter conveying his appointment signed by ACP Olabisi Okuwobi, National Coordinator of POCACOV, on behalf of the Nigeria Police Force., Dr Iheagwazi’s choice as an ambassador stems from “ His philanthropic endeavors, particularly in youth empowerment, education, and community development, which earned him numerous accolades, reflecting his unwavering commitment to nation-building and societal transformation.“

Dr. Iheagwazi, who was accompanied by Dr. Queen Onyinye Okpa, expressed his deep appreciation for the appointment, describing it as an honour to contribute to a cause that addresses critical issues affecting Nigerian society. In his remarks, he pledged his full support to the initiative and committed to leveraging his network and resources to advance the objectives of POCACOV.

In a moment of sincere reflection, Dr. Iheagwazi remarked, “To be honest, I never believed that such noble ideas and people-centered initiatives like POCACOV could exist within the Nigeria Police Force. This is a refreshing revelation for me, and it has changed my perception entirely. I am very pleased to be part of this noble campaign. This is my passion, and I am glad to be throwing my weight behind this good cause. I am particularly interested in youth development, and I am impressed that the Nigeria Police is taking proactive steps to addressing the issues of crimes and social vices in our country through this campaign.”

Dr. Iheagwazi, a Pan-Africanist, emphasized his belief that “Nigeria, as well as the rest of Africa, can be great again through the intentional engagement of her youths for nation-building.” He stressed that tackling cultism, drug abuse, cybercrime, and other vices is a collective responsibility that requires collaborative efforts from all sectors of society.

“I am willing to support POCACOV to ensure we create safer and more secure communities,” he added.

The Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of IGP Egbetokun, through POCACOV, continues to engage key stakeholders, influencers, and community leaders in its drive to promote preventive policing and provide meaningful alternatives to youth involvement in social vices. The campaign’s holistic approach focuses on advocacy, mentorship, and youth empowerment as strategic tools for crime prevention and nation-building.

The appointment of Dr. Emmanuel Iheagwazi further strengthens POCACOV’s mission to foster partnerships that will drive impactful community-based interventions across Nigeria.

Today, POCACOV takes the streets for a safer Lagos!

Join the POCACOV SOUTHWEST ZONE CAMPAIGN as we unite to campaign against crime and other vices in the beloved city of Lagos State.The UNITY MOVEMENT AGAINST ALL CRIMES is not just a walk, it’s a statement that together, we can reclaim our streets.

📍 Kickoff Point: Lagos State Police Command Headquarters
🕗 Time: 8:00 AM
👕 Dress Code: White T-shirt & Black Trousers
🚶🏽‍♂️ Highlight: Massive Road Walk (Motorcade)

Route: Computer Village → Oshodi → Mushin → Ojuelegba → CMS → Marina → Zone 2 HQ.

POCACOV… IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU. 💪🏾

“To Kill a Monkey” — My Reflection on Crime, Peer Pressure, Drug Abuse, and the Erosion of Values
By Joy Isioma Ejime-Irabie | Police Officer | Lawyer | Advocate (POCACOV)

As a police officer, lawyer, and advocate working with the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), I constantly find myself asking the question: “Why do people offend?” My work revolves around engaging young people, understanding the root causes of crime, and promoting preventive strategies that goes beyond enforcement.

Recently, while watching the Nigerian crime-thriller series “To Kill a Monkey”, I found a vivid reflection of the realities we face in our communities.
It was more than a movie to me.
The story of a young man, lured into cybercrime by an old friend, struck a deep chord with me not because it was fictional, but because it was a very familiar path.

Crime, as I believe, rarely begins with a deliberate choice. It often starts with small compromises, negative peer influence, societal pressure, and a silent erosion of personal values. The film skillfully depicts how these factors when left unchecked gradually pulls individuals into a cycle of crime, deception, and ultimately, self-destruction.

What also resonated with me was the subtle portrayal of drug abuse, a theme that is often ignored in mainstream conversations about crime. Drug use in this context isn’t just about addiction; it’s about escape, coping, and numbing the emotional consequences of wrongdoing. Unfortunately, substance abuse often becomes both a gateway and a trap, making the journey out of crime even harder.

In my career, I have seen brilliant young people fall victim to these same patterns, Infact I saw the picture of a familiar person lost in drug addiction and it broke my heart. Many didn’t intend to become offenders. They simply made a few wrong choices, lacked proper guidance, and were caught in the web of bad associations.

This movie reinforced the urgent need for us to go beyond punitive measures and focus more on prevention, mentorship, value reorientation, and creating safe spaces where young people can thrive without succumbing to the pressures of crime and drugs.

If we don’t step in early, if we don’t provide alternatives, guidance, and community support, the streets will. And once the streets take over, recovery becomes a much harder battle.

“To Kill a Monkey” is more than a film. It is a case study on why we must all take collective responsibility in shaping the moral compass of our society. “

*The Nexus of Parenting, Religion, Materialism, and Societal Pressure: Understanding Youth Involvement in Crime*

By ACP Okuwobi Olabisi, National Coordinator, Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV)

Youth involvement in crime is a pressing concern globally, with far-reaching implications for individuals, communities, and societies. In Nigeria, the scourge of cultism, substance abuse, and other vices has become a significant challenge. As the National Coordinator of POCACOV, I have seen firsthand the devastating effects of these issues on our youth and communities. This article explores the roles of parenting styles, religious influence, materialism, and societal pressure in shaping youth behavior and contributing to their involvement in crime.

*The Role of Parenting Styles*

Parenting styles play a significant role in shaping a child's behavior and influencing their likelihood of engaging in delinquent activities. Research has shown that authoritarian and permissive parenting styles can increase the likelihood of risky behaviors among adolescents, while authoritative parenting styles can reduce such tendencies. When parents fail to provide adequate guidance, support, and supervision, their children are more likely to engage in delinquent behavior.¹

*The Impact of Religious Influence*

Religion can have both positive and negative influences on youth behavior. While it can provide a moral framework and sense of community, some interpretations or lack of religious guidance might contribute to extremist or criminal behavior. It's essential to promote a balanced and nuanced understanding of religion that emphasizes tolerance, compassion, and respect for human life.

*The Dangers of Materialism*

Materialism and the pursuit of wealth have become significant drivers of youth involvement in crime. When young people prioritize material possessions and wealth above all else, they may become more likely to engage in illicit activities to achieve their goals. This can lead to a range of negative consequences, including involvement in organized crime, cybercrime, and other forms of exploitation.

*Societal Pressure and Youth Involvement in Crime*

Societal pressure and expectations can also play a significant role in driving youth involvement in crime. When young people feel pressure to conform to certain norms or expectations, they may become more likely to engage in delinquent behavior. This can include pressure to join gangs, participate in cultism, or engage in other forms of antisocial behavior.

*Addressing the Root Causes*

To effectively address youth involvement in crime, we must tackle the root causes of this issue. This includes² ³:
- *Strengthening Family Bonds*: Providing parents with the support and resources they need to effectively guide and supervise their children.
- *Promoting Positive Role Models*: Encouraging positive role models and mentors who can inspire and motivate young people to make positive choices.
- *Addressing Materialism*: Promoting a balanced and nuanced understanding of material wealth and encouraging young people to prioritize values such as hard work, integrity, and compassion.
- *Reducing Societal Pressure*: Encouraging a culture that values and supports young people, rather than pressuring them to conform to certain norms or expectations.

By working together to address these underlying factors, we can reduce youth involvement in crime and create a safer, more prosperous future for all Nigerians.

ACP Okuwobi Olabisi is the National Coordinator of the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV).

POCACOV Brings Community Intervention Outreach to Dape Community, AMAC, FCT
In a landmark initiative held on July 17, 2025, the Nigeria Police Force, through its Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), conducted a community intervention outreach in Dape Community, Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), FCT, giving back to the public in a structured, people-centered way.
During the outreach, DSP Adoh Nwakaego, POCACOV Head of Community Engagement across the 36 states and FCT, delivered a comprehensive presentation emphasizing education, community partnership and crime prevention. In an interactive session she advised and interviewed youths one on one , creating open dialogue while warning of the consequences of criminality, stressing that “It is far better not to entertain the thought of crime.”She also fielded questions about cultism, drug abuse and gun violence, offering clear pathways out of peer pressure and illicit activities. In response, many of the Dape youths (aged 15–35) confessed that they felt “brainwashed” by negative influences and desperately need economic and educational empowerment. They expressed unhappiness with their current living conditions and seek opportunities to build a dignified future.The stakeholders of the Dape community present at the outreach, including Mr. Hassan Meji and Mr. Blessed Peter , contributed to the success of the program through their support and mobilization efforts. The Ahakim of Dape also welcomed POCACOV warmly and applauded the Nigeria Police Force for this initiative of the Inspector General of Police, emphasizing that such engagements are timely and essential for youth and community development.The community expressed overwhelming gratitude to the Inspector General of Police and the Nigeria Police Force for envisioning POCACOV and empowering ACP Olabisi Okuwobi, National Coordinator of POCACOV, to take these people-centered initiatives to the grassroots.They called for expanded empowerment programs, vocational training, micro-grants and mentorship to ensure that “Police is your friend” becomes a lived reality, not just a slogan. POCACOV continues to serve as a beacon of hope to the public and the community, providing direction, empowerment and a platform for community safety and youth development. Its slogan, “It’s all about you,” reflects its commitment to people centered policing, ensuring that the needs, aspirations and safety of the community remain at the heart of its operations.This outreach underscores POCACOV’s commitment to crime prevention through education, community empowerment, and partnership, demonstrating a new era in policing where the police and the public work hand in hand to build safer, more resilient communities.

DAPE COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Today, POCACOV is engaging the vibrant youth of Dape under the theme “Breaking the Chain: “Drug-Free Paths for Emerging Leaders.”

This outreach is part of our commitment to nurturing a new generation of responsible, drug-free, and purpose-driven leaders.

Let’s keep working together to end the cycle and build a safer society.

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