Ogun Police warn students against cultism, cybercrime, political violence

By Adebola Muili

The Ogun State Police Command has warned students against cultism, drug abuse, cybercrime, political thuggery and other forms of criminality capable of derailing their future and threatening national security.

The Police Public Relations Officer of the command, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, gave the warning while delivering a keynote address at the 45th Students Parliament Council (SPC) Summit 2026, organised by the Student Parliamentary Council of the Federal College of Education, Abeokuta.

The summit had as its theme, “From Campus to Nation: Mobilising for Peace, Security and Development.”

Babaseyi described students as important stakeholders in national security, stressing that maintaining peace and security was not the sole responsibility of the Police or other security agencies.

According to him, the campus should serve not only as a centre for academic pursuits but also as a training ground for leadership, responsible citizenship and active participation in society.

“Security is not the responsibility of the Police alone. It is a collective responsibility involving government, security agencies, communities, families and, most importantly, responsible citizens,” he said.

The PPRO particularly urged students to reject cultism, warning that involvement in cult-related activities could expose them to violence and ultimately destroy their future.

He noted that cultism often thrives on low self-esteem, insecurity and the desire for validation, belonging or protection among young people.

“True strength is found in self-confidence, discipline, character and the courage to stand independently without hiding behind a group,” Babaseyi said.

He urged students not to allow themselves to be recruited into groups that could turn their youthful energy into instruments of violence.

The police spokesman also cautioned students on the responsible use of social media, noting that their phones and digital platforms could either promote peace or create serious security challenges.

He advised them to think carefully before posting information and to verify claims before sharing them, particularly warning against the circulation of rumours, hate speech, incitement and unverified information.

As the country prepares for the 2027 general elections, Babaseyi urged Nigerian youths to embrace peaceful participation, issue-based engagement and respect for democratic processes.

“As we approach the 2027 general elections, Nigerian youths must choose the path of peaceful participation, issue-based engagement and respect for democratic processes. Your voice matters, but it must be expressed responsibly,” he said.

Babaseyi said the Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, and the Ogun State Police Command, led by Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, psc, FCSS, MNIPR, remained committed to protecting lives and property and creating a safe environment for education, investment and development.

He, however, stressed that effective policing depended largely on citizens’ cooperation with security agencies.

The PPRO urged the students to provide credible information to the Police, support lawful security initiatives and maintain peaceful relationships within their communities.

“See something, say something. Provide credible information, support lawful security initiatives and maintain peaceful relationships within your communities,” he said.

Babaseyi urged the students to recognise that the future of the country would be shaped by the choices they make today, calling on them to embrace peace, responsibility, integrity and service.

“The nation you desire tomorrow begins with the choices you make today. From the classroom to the community, and from the campus to the nation, let us choose peace, responsibility, integrity and service,” he said.

He expressed hope that the summit would inspire a new generation of young Nigerians not only to demand a better country but also to take responsibility for building one.