Police suspend initiative against sects and consider reorientation of strategy

The Nigerian Police Force has ordered the immediate cessation of the activities of the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), a community-based policing initiative and a public relations tool of the Police Public Relations Department.

Police spokesperson ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, who announced this yesterday, said the decision was made as part of a strategic effort to conduct a comprehensive review of the unit and reposition it to increase its efficiency and deliver improved service.

He acknowledged the critical role of POCACOV in promoting community engagement and combating social vices, saying the force recognised the need to halt all pending programmes and relief operations initiated by the current National Coordinator, CSP Ebere Amarizu, to enable a thorough assessment and restructuring of the initiative, which is expected to expand to all six geopolitical zones, each with its own coordinator.

Adejobi said: “The aim of this temporary suspension is to refocus POCACOV’s strategies and ensure that they effectively address current security challenges and better serve Nigerian communities at large than the current localized and ineffective campaigns.

“During this suspension, the Nigeria Police Force reaffirms its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property across the country.” He added: “The revival of POCACOV is intended to enhance its role as an integral tool of community policing and strengthen the bond between the police and our communities.”

“Updates regarding the resumption of POCACOV programs and outreach activities will be communicated to the public in due course as safety, security and community partnerships continue to be police’s top priority.”