- Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, issued a statement on Thursday to address the matter
- Comedian’s actions deemed a violation of uniform use provisions in the law
The Nigeria Police Force has expressed its determination to conduct a thorough investigation and subsequently prosecute Abdulgafar Abiola, popularly known as “Cute Abiola,” due to alleged disrespectful portrayal of the police uniform in his comedy skits.
In a statement released on Thursday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, it was asserted that the comedian’s actions were in violation of the legal provisions concerning the use of uniforms.
The statement read, “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.”
Cute Abiola has had his share of controversies in the past. In 2021, fellow comedian Debi Adedayo, also known as Mr. Macaroni, raised concerns about Cute Abiola’s whereabouts and shared the news on his official Twitter account. According to the message, Cute Abiola’s wife and associates had lost contact with him since November 15, 2021.
However, the Nigerian Navy contradicted this claim and issued a press release stating that the skit maker was indeed arrested, dispelling the idea that he was missing. The reason behind the arrest was attributed to his alleged violation of the Armed Forces’ social media rule policy pertaining to the use of social media platforms.