IGP Initiative: POCACOV Ramadan Lecture Inspires Unity, Advocates Against Crime in Ejigbo
By Arikawe Femi
As part of efforts to further reduce crime within society, the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), under the directive of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, hosted a landmark Ramadan lecture. The event, held on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at the Ejigbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Lagos State, drew an impressive audience keen to embrace its messages of peace, unity, and social reformation.
Themed “The Consequences of People’s Actions and the Impact They Have in Life and Hereafter,” the lecture aimed to strengthen togetherness, foster unity, and promote crime prevention, particularly among youths vulnerable to societal vices. The forum provided a platform to advocate for positive behavioral changes and address issues such as cultism, aligning with POCACOV’s preventive approach to policing.
The Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) in Operations, Tijani Fatai, ably represented the IGP at the event and delivered a powerful speech. DCP Tijani conveyed the IGP’s commitment to engaging with grassroots communities to create long-term solutions for societal challenges. He emphasized that combating crime requires a joint effort from all sectors of society and praised POCACOV’s focus on enlightenment and behavioral change. He reiterated the IGP’s belief that preventive measures, such as mentorship and community-focused initiatives, are vital in creating a safer and more harmonious environment.
Dignitaries from various government agencies and key stakeholders enriched the event with their presence. Attendees included representatives from the National Orientation Agency, senior police officers, the Lagos Neighborhood Safety Corps, detectives from Eagle Crime Awareness and Prevention Initiative, captains of industry, youths from diverse backgrounds, and esteemed Muslim scholars. Among them was the Chairman of Ejigbo LCDA, Hon. Monsurudeen Oloyede Bello who commended the initiative for its impactful message and far-reaching goals.
Abdulgafar Kukoyi, the guest lecturer, delved into the essence of Ramadan, emphasizing its role in fostering self-discipline and moral transformation. He urged the youth to distance themselves from all forms of crime, highlighting the spiritual and societal consequences of their actions. His insights resonated strongly with the audience, inspiring introspection and a renewed commitment to personal development.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Olabisi Okuwobi, the National Coordinator of POCACOV, reiterated the lecture’s objectives, explaining that it targeted grassroots communities to combat cultism and other destructive behaviors. She emphasized that beyond enforcement, initiatives like these encourage reflection, unity, and collective responsibility in addressing societal challenges. She also commended the thoughtful provisions of transportation, meals, and religious materials for attendees, ensuring an inclusive and comfortable experience, particularly for those observing Ramadan.
In her remarks, ACP Okuwobi underscored the necessity of proactive engagement with youths to foster long-term peace and security. She acknowledged the support of the IGP in creating opportunities for education and dialogue, aligning with the broader vision of a crime-free society.
Concluding the program, participants were urged to adopt the teachings, desist from vices, and contribute positively to their communities. Stakeholders emphasized the importance of collaboration among parents, communities, and the government in shaping the next generation.
This Ramadan lecture, uniting faith, law enforcement, and community development, represents a significant stride in grassroots crime prevention and societal renewal. It not only reinforced values of togetherness and discipline but also highlighted the power of community-driven approaches in creating a safer and more harmonious society.
