Gombe Police Take Anti-Cultism, Drug Abuse Campaign to Secondary School

The Gombe State Police Command has intensified its campaign against cultism, thuggery, drug abuse and other social vices by taking its awareness programme to students of Government Secondary School, Pantami (Malam Kuri), in Akko Local Government Area.

The sensitisation exercise, organised under the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), formed part of activities at the school’s Career Day programme and focused on crime prevention, responsible citizenship and career development.

The initiative, the command said, aligns with the vision of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, on intelligence-led, community-oriented and proactive policing aimed at preventing crime through sustained public engagement.

Addressing the students, the Divisional Police Officer of Pantami Division, CSP Umar Ahmed Sanda, urged them to make informed career choices, obey the law and support security agencies by reporting suspicious activities within their schools and communities.

The session also featured an interactive discussion, during which students sought guidance on career opportunities, personal development and crime prevention.

Coordinator of POCACOV in the state, ASP Eram Naomi, educated the students on the dangers associated with cultism, thuggery, locally known as *Kalare*, drug abuse and other criminal activities.

She warned that drug abuse remains one of the major factors fuelling youth violence, cult-related activities and other crimes, urging the students to avoid negative influences and remain committed to their education.

The students were encouraged to reject bullying, embrace discipline and become law-abiding citizens capable of making meaningful contributions to society.

Commenting on the initiative, the Commissioner of Police, Gombe State Command, CP Umar Ahmed Chuso, reiterated the command’s commitment to preventive policing through regular engagement with young people.

He said, **”Educating young people on the dangers of cultism, thuggery, drug abuse and other social vices remains a critical strategy for building a safer and more peaceful Gombe State.”**

The police commissioner added that the command would continue to partner schools, parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other stakeholders to shield young people from criminal influences.

According to him, sustained collaboration with communities is essential to raising responsible and productive citizens while reducing youth involvement in crime.

The command also expressed appreciation to the management, staff and students of Government Secondary School, Pantami, for their cooperation and support during the sensitisation programme.