The Nigeria Police Force has taken a firm stance against online comedian Abdulgafar Ahmad, also known as Cute Abiola, stating that they will prosecute him for his recent skits posted on social media. According to the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the comedian’s actions, which featured a disrespectful and derogatory portrayal of the police uniform, were deemed contemptuous.
In response to the skits posted on July 20th and 24th, the police spokesman cited violations of Section 251 of the Criminal Code and Section 133 of the Penal Code Law. He emphasized that such acts not only offend but also undermine the integrity and dignity of the police officers who proudly wear the uniform while serving the nation.
“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,” he added.
This isn’t the first time the comedian has found himself in hot water. In 2020, he was arrested for posting birthday pictures in Navy uniform, a breach of the Nigerian Armed Forces Social Media Policy. Similarly, in 2021, the Nigerian Navy arrested him for allegedly violating their social media policy. On that occasion, he received a punishment of one-month “extra duty” for wearing police uniform in one of his skits and ridiculing the Nigeria Police Force.
Despite the warning issued to skit makers and filmmakers by the NPF to avoid desecrating their uniform or accoutrements, Cute Abiola’s recent skits have landed him in legal trouble once again. The police are committed to upholding the sanctity of the uniform and will ensure that the comedian faces due legal process for his deliberate actions.
In response to the situation, the police authorities call on all members of the public, including media personalities, to exercise their freedom of expression responsibly and avoid actions that could tarnish the reputation of law enforcement institutions.
The comedian, a former Naval officer, made the decision to resign from the Navy in 2022 to pursue his dream, but it seems his actions have continued to spark controversies. While some argue that other individuals have used police uniforms for similar skits without facing consequences, the police force is determined to uphold accountability and integrity in its ranks.
As the legal process unfolds, Cute Abiola finds himself in a complex situation, one that highlights the balance between creative expression and respecting the sanctity of institutions. The outcome of the prosecution will likely have implications for how public figures navigate their artistic expressions while ensuring they remain respectful to the symbols and values of the country’s law enforcement bodies.
