Police Launch Nationwide Campaign to Combat Cultism, Drug Abuse

The Nigeria Police Force has launched a nationwide advocacy and sensitization campaign aimed at tackling cultism, drug abuse, violent crime, and other social vices across the country.

The initiative, known as the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), was flagged off by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, with activities scheduled to commence across all state police commands.

According to a statement issued on Saturday by the Force Headquarters, the campaign forms part of the Police Force’s commitment to proactive policing, community engagement, and crime prevention through grassroots sensitisation, early intervention, and collaboration with key stakeholders.

The police said POCACOV is its flagship community policing initiative designed to discourage young people from engaging in cultism, drug abuse, violent crimes, and other forms of criminality by promoting positive values and responsible citizenship.

As part of the campaign, state commands will work closely with schools, communities, religious organisations, traditional institutions, and other relevant groups to educate young people on the dangers of social vices and encourage lawful behaviour.

The Force said the initiative is expected to strengthen partnerships between the police and members of the public while addressing the root causes of youth involvement in crime.

It reaffirmed its commitment to preventive policing strategies that prioritise public safety, protect young people from criminal influences, and promote safer communities across Nigeria.

The nationwide campaign is expected to feature advocacy programs, school outreaches, community engagements, and awareness activities across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.