Despite the right to fundamental human rights in Nigeria, the law strictly prohibits individuals from undermining or violating provisions related to the use of police uniforms.
Two skits posted on his social media accounts on 20th and 24th July, 2023, portrayed a highly disrespectful and derogatory representation of the police uniform, a clear violation of Section 251 of the Criminal Code and Section 133 of the Penal Code Law.
The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has issued warnings to skit makers and filmmakers against desecrating the uniform, and now they will investigate and possibly prosecute Abdulgafar Abiola for his deliberate actions.
The NPF emphasizes the importance of preserving the integrity and dignity of the uniform and will hold any individual accountable for actions that bring disrepute to the institution.
The public and media personalities are urged to exercise their freedom of expression responsibly, avoiding any actions that could erode public trust in the country’s esteemed law enforcement institutions.
READ WHAT NPF POSTED VIA THEIR VERIFIED TWITTER HANDLE
RE: POLICE UNIFORM: COMEDIAN ABDULGAFAR ABIOLA, AKA “CUTE ABIOLA’S” CONTEMPTUOUS ACT IS CRIMINAL, PUNISHABLE
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.
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.
OLUMUYIWA ADEJOBI, mnipr, mipra
FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER
FORCE HEADQUARTERS
ABUJA
27th July, 2023
