Nigeria Police to Investigate Comedian ‘Cute Abiola’ for Disrespecting Police Uniform in Skits

The Nigeria Police Force has taken a firm stance against popular comedian Abdulgafar Abiola, widely known as “Cute Abiola,” for his alleged disrespect towards the police uniform in his comedy skits.

In an official statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the comedian is accused of violating provisions of the law related to the use of uniforms.

The statement condemned the disrespectful portrayal of the police uniform in two recent skits posted on Cute Abiola’s social media handles on 20th and 24th July 2023. Such actions, according to the statement, are not only offensive but also undermine the integrity and dignity of the men and women who wear the police uniform in service to the nation.

Abdulgafar Abiola is now set to face an investigation and possible prosecution for his deliberate acts, as the Nigerian Police Force had previously warned skit makers and filmmakers against desecrating its uniform or accoutrements.

The police emphasized their commitment to upholding the sanctity of the uniform and their determination to 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.

The statement called on all members of the public, including media personalities, to exercise their freedom of expression responsibly and refrain from engaging in actions that could erode public trust in law enforcement institutions.

This is not the first time Cute Abiola has faced controversy. In 2021, he was declared missing by fellow comedian Mr. Macaroni, but the Nigerian Navy later revealed that he was under investigation for breaching the Armed Forces social media rule policy. He was detained for over two weeks and subsequently released, with the naval spokesman stating that he knowingly violated the armed forces’ social media policy and received a light punishment of one-month extra duty for misconduct and indiscipline.

As the investigation proceeds, Cute Abiola’s fate remains uncertain, and the outcome may serve as a cautionary tale for others in the entertainment industry regarding their portrayal of law enforcement and military institutions in their creative works. The incident also highlights the ongoing debates surrounding freedom of expression, artistic creativity, and the boundaries that should be respected when it comes to portraying public institutions in entertainment content.