Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu has launched a nationwide advocacy campaign under the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV) to tackle cultism, drug abuse, violent crime and other social vices through community engagement and preventive policing.
According to the Nigeria Police Force, the campaign is designed to discourage young people from engaging in cultism, substance abuse, violent crime and other anti-social behaviours through sustained public enlightenment and stakeholder engagement.
The Force said the programme will be implemented across all state commands and will involve schools, religious organisations, traditional institutions, civil society groups and local communities to promote positive values and responsible citizenship.
The campaign forms part of the Nigeria Police Force’s preventive policing strategy, which seeks to address the root causes of youth involvement in crime through advocacy, mentorship and strategic partnerships rather than relying solely on law enforcement. Police authorities said community participation remains central to reducing crime and improving public safety.
In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Iniedu, the Police said the nationwide campaign reflects the commitment of the Inspector-General to proactive policing, youth development and community-driven initiatives. The Force added that POCACOV would continue to strengthen collaboration with critical stakeholders to build safer communities across the country.
The Nigeria Police Force said the advocacy campaign will continue nationwide as part of its broader efforts to prevent crime, discourage social vices and promote stronger partnerships between law enforcement agencies and local communities.