By Ejiofor Toochi
The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) is set to investigate and take legal action against skitmaker, Abdulgafar Abiola, popularly known as Cute Abiola due to his inappropriate use of their uniform in his skits.
This was made known in a statement released on Thursday, by the force PRO, Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
The statement read, “In as much as the law grants Nigerians the right to enjoy their fundamental human rights, the same law prohibits an individual, under whatever guise, from rubbishing the police institution or grossly violating its provisions with regards to the use of uniforms.
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“We, therefore, vehemently condemn the contemptuous act displayed by comedian Abdulgafar Abiola, popularly known as “Cute Abiola,” in two recent skits posted on his social media handles on 20th and 24th July, 2023. The skits in question show a highly disrespectful and derogatory portrayal of the police uniform, an action that is in direct violation of Section 251 of the Criminal Code and Section 133 of the Penal Code Law. Such acts are not only offensive but also undermine the integrity and dignity of the men and women who wear the uniform in service to the nation.
“Abdulgafar Abiola will be investigated and possibly prosecuted for his deliberate acts as the NPF had already warned skit makers and filmmakers to desist from desecrating its uniform or accoutrements. The Force is committed to upholding the sanctity of the uniform and will pursue due legal process to ensure accountability for any individual or entity that seeks to bring disrepute to the uniform or the institution it represents. We call on all members of the public, including media personalities, to exercise their freedom of expression responsibly and avoid engaging in actions that could erode public trust in our revered law enforcement institutions.”
REACTIONS:
The NPF’s move to prosecute Cute Abiola for his inappropriate use of their uniform in his skits has caused a stir on social media.
Here are some reactions.
@Yemi_: But the logo and designs doesn’t resemble The Nigeria police logo and design…. I agree the acting resemble The Nigeria police
@IjeleSpeaks2: Teach them what their parents failed to teach them at home.
@Thomas kelvin16: But that is not the Nigerian police uniform, except for the acting No shade.
@ifedayo john: You cannot see through the skit and make amendments where necessary. Seeking validation up and down. The use of ‘Satire’ cannot be eliminated in works of art. It is now left to your institution to fix up!
@OwoBalo: You people are always angry whenever they use your uniform to act. I am not supporting Abiola but they act accordingto the reality. When I drove from Abuja toEkiti State, more than 15 points, the police will ask for money by body language. I wouldn’t any other penny except one of them around Ekiti that asked with jovial I decided to give.
