Reject cultism, drug abuse, cybercrime – Ogun PPRO charges students

The Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, of the Ogun State Police Command, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, has urged Nigerian students to reject cultism, drug abuse, violence and cybercrime, saying their choices today will shape the nation’s future.

Babaseyi gave the charge on Thursday, while delivering a keynote address at the 45th Students Parliament Council, SPC, Summit organised by the Student Parliamentary Council of the Federal College of Education, Abeokuta.

Speaking at the summit themed, ‘From Campus to Nation: Mobilising for Peace, Security and Development’, the police spokesperson said the campus is not merely a place for academic pursuit but a training ground for leadership, citizenship and responsible participation in society.

He described students as critical stakeholders in national security, stressing that security is not the responsibility of the police alone but a collective duty involving government, communities, families and responsible citizens.

The police image maker warned students against cultism, drug abuse, political thuggery and other criminal acts capable of destroying their future.

According to him, cultism is not a sign of strength or superiority but feeds on low self-esteem, insecurity and the desire for validation and belonging.

“True strength is found in self-confidence, discipline, character and the courage to stand independently without hiding behind a group. Do not allow anyone to recruit you into activities that will turn your youthful energy into a tool for violence.

“I therefore urge you to reject cultism, drug abuse, violence, cybercrime, political thuggery and every form of criminality that can destroy your future,” he said.

Babaseyi urged students to be responsible on social media, noting that phones and digital platforms can either promote peace or create serious security challenges.

He advised them to think before they post, verify before they share, and never use social media to spread rumours, hate or unverified information.

The PPRO also charged youths to embrace peaceful political participation as the 2027 general elections approach, calling for issue-based engagement and respect for democratic processes.

He said the Nigeria Police Force under the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and the Ogun State Command under the Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, remains committed to protecting lives and property and creating a safe environment for education and development.

Babaseyi, however, said policing becomes more effective when citizens cooperate with the police, urging students to provide credible information and support lawful security initiatives.

He charged them to adopt the principle of “see something, say something” and to maintain peaceful relationships within their communities, saying the Nigeria they desire tomorrow begins with the choices they make today.