Nigerians on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) have expressed mixed reactions to a recent statement by Prince Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Nigerian Police Force, regarding activism. In a tweet, Adejobi stated, “Activism is not a profession….. beware of any activist who doesn’t have a profession.”.
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The comment has ignited a heated debate, with many users questioning the intent and timing of the statement, especially amid ongoing concerns about police conduct, accountability, and allegations of extortion and harassment by law enforcement officers.
While some users agreed with Adejobi’s stance, others criticized the statement, arguing that it overlooks the critical role activists play in holding authorities accountable.
Mezie Abia (@MezieAbia) responded, “Extortion is not part of policing profession either. Beware of any policeman who extorts money from you for bail in the police station or for vehicle particulars on the highway.”
Similarly, Megami𝕩er (@djokaymegamixer) highlighted the importance of activism, stating, “I can imagine what Nigeria would have turned to in the hands of those who would rather extort, oppress, and repress the people instead of protecting them if not for some activists.”
Many users seized the opportunity to call out alleged misconduct within the police force. Mr. Arinze (@iam_arinzona) tweeted, “Activities are not extortion. We’ll worry more about the profession that extorts entrepreneurs’ hard-earned money.”
Eze Ndi Imo (@Ehis_Bukaty) also weighed in, saying, “Extortion and bribery are not professions. Beware of policemen who own properties with salaries less than 300k monthly.”
The conversation also delved into the legitimacy of activism as a profession. Pidgin writer (@E_Samchi24) argued, “Activism is indeed a profession. Martin Luther King, Thomas Sankara, Nelson Mandela, etc. And even if an activist doesn’t have a profession, that doesn’t make one a criminal or does it?”
Itumo (@itumomartins) added, “Activism will stop the day social injustice stops. Tell your officers to ensure social justice and not be a tool for the breach of citizens’ rights.”
However, not all reactions were in defense of activism. Diekololaoluwa (@YeyeOba001) criticized some activists, calling them “cashtivists in disguise” and labeling them as “a bunch of executive rogues.”
The discussion also touched on broader concerns about police transparency and accountability. Krysten6588 warned against the abuse of power, stating, “This man thinks he’s going to be in this office forever. You think power is forever? No worry, soon it will reflect, if not now certainly tomorrow. IRE OOOOO.”
The remark also sparked a debate about prominent activists in Nigeria, with Akintayo (@Morre24) listing names such as Aisha Yesufu, Rinu Oduala, and Deji Adeyanju, asking Adejobi which individuals he was referring to.
While some found humor in the statement, others saw it as an attempt to discredit activism in Nigeria. The backlash highlights the ongoing tensions between law enforcement and civic advocacy in the country.
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