The Nigeria Police Force has pledged to launch a thorough investigation into the actions of Abdulgafar Abiola, popularly known as Cute Abiola, over purported offenses involving the desecration of police attire in his skits, with the intention of pursuing appropriate legal action.
This information was disclosed by ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, through an official statement on Thursday.
Two recent comedy skits featuring the comedian were shared on his social media accounts on July 20 and 24. In both videos, he portrayed a police officer, stopping drivers, and in one instance, he went as far as requesting a bribe from a driver. When the driver mentioned being low on cash, the comedian even suggested a cash transfer.
Earlier, the police had issued warnings to skit makers and filmmakers, imploring them not to misuse or desecrate the police uniform and its accoutrements.
Read also: Use Of Uniform: IGP Threatens Arrest Of Skit, Filmmakers
The statement reads, ‘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.’
It is worth remembering that in November 2021, Cute Abiola was detained by the Nigerian Navy for ten days for uploading a video on social media, where he was seen donning military uniform.