The Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV) has received with deep concern the recent viral video allegedly showing students of Excel College, Ejigbo, indulging in smoking and alcohol consumption within a dormitory setting. This unfortunate incident is not isolated; similar cases have been reported in secondary schools across Nigeria and even beyond, reflecting a growing menace that must be confronted decisively, National Association of Online Security News Publishers, NAOSNP can report.
POCACOV views this trend as a dangerous threat to the moral fabric of our society. The normalization of smoking, alcohol, drug abuse, cultism, and other vices among students corrupts young minds, disrupts academic focus, and sets many on a path of destruction. Such behaviours, when left unchecked, are gateways to more grievous crimes, broken futures, and societal decay.
As the flagship preventive-policing programme of the Nigeria Police Force, POCACOV emphasizes that the fight against vices cannot be left to schools alone. Parents, religious institutions, community leaders, and the larger society must all rise to their responsibilities in shaping young lives and reinforcing positive values. Every child lost to vices represents not only a family tragedy but also a setback to the nation’s collective development.
While relevant authorities investigate this specific incident, POCACOV urges schools nationwide to strengthen guidance and counselling structures, ensure strict supervision within dormitories, and collaborate more actively with security and community stakeholders. Beyond punitive measures, the emphasis must be on advocacy, mentoring, and empowerment — providing our young people with constructive alternatives through skill acquisition, sports, and creative engagements.
POCACOV reiterates its commitment to leading this preventive charge. We will continue to intensify campaigns, expand school and community outreach, and work with government agencies, civil society, and international partners to build safer and healthier learning environments. Together, we must protect our youths from the traps of vices, because saving the youths today means saving the future of our nation and Africa at large.
