The Oyo State Police [POCACOV](https://www.oyostatepolice.ng) team visited Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School and Islamic High School in Ibadan on Friday, urging students to abandon cultism, drug abuse, bullying and other criminal conduct, and appealing to parents and community leaders to safeguard girls from child marriage, abuse and exploitation.
Key points from the outreach include:
- The programme was timed to coincide with the International Day of the Girl Child, using the theme “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights.”
- ASP Mary Ayisha Eriaremhien, the state POCACOV coordinator, warned that early marriage robs girls of schooling, endangers their health and curtails future aspirations.
- CSP Abiodun Giwa, commander of the Anti‑Cultism Unit, urged pupils to report any pressure to join illegal groups to parents, teachers or security agencies.
- Student Isaac Blessing praised the initiative for highlighting the dangers of cultism and providing clear channels for help.
What did the police emphasise?
The officers highlighted that cultism, drug misuse, theft, examination malpractice, sexual harassment and violence not only jeopardise academic progress but also threaten long‑term personal development. They encouraged learners to resist negative peer pressure, choose friends wisely and seek assistance from trusted adults when faced with challenges.
How can communities protect the girl child?
Eriaremhien described child marriage as a child‑protection issue demanding collective action from parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders, teachers, government agencies, civil‑society groups and security operatives. She called for sustained investment in girls’ education, health care, mentorship and life‑skills programmes to create an environment where young people can thrive.
Who attended the sessions?
Representatives of the POCACOV team included state chairman Dr Abraham Adeoye, Ambassador Daniel Osita, Public Relations Officer Mr Odedele Olakunle, Inspectors Esther Ahmed and Samson Oduola, and PC Oluwatoyin Joseph. The principals of the two schools – Mrs Ajoke Aguda (Our Lady of Apostles) and Mr Fasasi Abdullahi Babatunde (Islamic High School) – were also present, together with several teachers.
The police stressed that criminal activities offer no lasting benefits and urged students to adopt discipline, make responsible choices and report any intimidation or abuse promptly. By fostering supportive, secure school environments, the campaign aims to empower youths to develop positive values and pursue their full potential.