The Nigerian Police Force is taking action against comedian Cute Abiola for wearing their security agency uniform in his recent skits that went viral online.
In the skits, Cute Abiola was seen forcefully demanding money from two individuals at a checkpoint, which has caused dissatisfaction within the Nigerian Police Force.
In an official statement, the Police Force condemned Cute Abiola’s act in his skits and issued a warning that they will investigate, prosecute, and punish him if found guilty of the highly disrespectful and derogatory portrayal of the police uniform.
The Police Force emphasized that while Nigerians have the right to enjoy their fundamental human rights, the law prohibits anyone from undermining the police institution or violating its provisions regarding the use of uniforms. The skits by Cute Abiola were deemed offensive and disrespectful, directly violating relevant sections of the Criminal Code and Penal Code Law.
The statement asserted that such actions not only offend the police force but also undermine the integrity and dignity of the men and women who wear the uniform in service to the nation.
Abdulgafar Abiola, popularly known as “Cute Abiola,” will undergo investigation and possible prosecution due to his deliberate acts, as the Nigerian Police Force had previously warned skit makers and filmmakers against desecrating the police uniform or its accoutrements.
The Police Force is determined to uphold the sanctity of the uniform and will pursue legal measures to hold accountable anyone who attempts to bring disrepute to the uniform or the institution it represents.
The public, including media personalities, are urged to exercise their freedom of expression responsibly and avoid actions that could erode public trust in law enforcement institutions.
The official statement was released on the Nigerian Police Force’s Twitter handle on July 27, 2023.