Bauchi Police Chief Warns Youths Off Thuggery, Cyber Scams

Sani-Omolori Aliyu, the Commissioner of Police for Bauchi State, has issued a stern caution to young people, urging them not to become tools for political thuggery or cybercrime at the behest of politicians and unscrupulous individuals. This admonition came during an event hosted by the Bauchi State Police Command on Thursday, marking the 2026 International Youth Day. The day's theme was “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” complemented by the campaign slogan, “My Future Is Greater Than Political Thuggery.”

The occasion included a focused campaign against both political and digital forms of thuggery, alongside an interactive session between the police and youths covering topics like leadership, security, and the prospects for young Nigerians. Aliyu highlighted that this initiative demonstrates the Nigeria Police Force's dedication to involving youths and safeguarding them from being exploited.

Emphasizing the significance of the event, the Commissioner stated, “We have formally launched a long overdue campaign, a campaign to reclaim the promise of our youth from the clutches of political and digital thuggery.” He further asserted the positive role of young people, declaring, “Our youths are not the problem; they are the solution. They are the innovators, entrepreneurs, leaders and custodians of tomorrow.”

Aliyu pointed out that certain individuals, operating both offline and online, capitalize on the vulnerabilities of young people, manipulating them into acts of violence and general societal disorder. He explained that the ongoing campaign aims to enlighten youths about the perils of political and digital thuggery, equip them to realize their inherent capabilities, and motivate them to actively contribute to community safety and national progress.

He confirmed that the campaign's efforts would be sustained through the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (P-CACA) initiative, with plans to extend its reach to various communities throughout Bauchi State.

Stressing collective effort, Aliyu declared, “The security of our state and the future of our youth is a shared responsibility. The police cannot do it alone. We need the support of parents, teachers, religious leaders, traditional rulers, community stakeholders and, most importantly, the youths themselves.” He powerfully urged them, saying, “You are the architects of your own destiny. Do not allow anyone to use you as cannon fodder for political violence. Do not allow the allure of big money from cybercrime to destroy your future.”

Meanwhile, Muhammad Ahmadu, the Assistant Commissioner of Police overseeing Operations, also addressed the gathering, calling on young people to embrace their roles as responsible examples within their communities.

Ahmadu highlighted several factors that render youths susceptible to exploitation by politicians and criminals. These include economic challenges, the pursuit of instant wealth, peer influence, the need for acceptance, the absence of positive mentors, and feelings of low self-worth. He specifically cautioned young individuals against accepting financial inducements from politicians in exchange for participating in election-related violence.

He delivered a stark warning: “Once the election is over, or the objective is achieved, you are discarded. Meanwhile, the sponsors walk away.” Ahmadu then posed a poignant question to the youths: “I ask you today, what is your future worth? What is the price of a few thousand naira? Is it worth your life, your future and the respect of a group that does not care if you live or die?”

Furthermore, Ahmadu issued warnings against drug abuse and various forms of cybercrime, such as identity theft, hacking, and online fraudulent schemes, emphasizing their severe legal and lasting repercussions. He counselled youths to safeguard their online presence, always confirm information before disseminating it on digital platforms, and report any suspicious online behaviour via official channels.

Instead of pursuing illicit shortcuts to wealth, Ahmadu encouraged young people to prioritize education, develop valuable skills, establish legitimate businesses, and engage in other constructive endeavours. He concluded with a powerful statement: “The choice before you is a future of dignity or a future of crime and regret. Your answer to this choice will determine not just your destiny, but the destiny of our state and nation.”

He finally implored youths to commit to personal growth, cultivate beneficial connections, and engage actively in lawful community initiatives.