SP Josephine Adeh tweet on Hilda Baci’s ‘pot of rice’ has thrown the police under fire.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has faced sharp criticism following a social media post by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command’s spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, which many Nigerians described as insensitive to the country’s worsening security situation.
Reacting to Guinness World Record holder Hilda Baci’s feat of cooking the world’s largest pot of jollof rice on Friday, Adeh took to X (formerly Twitter) with a post that read:
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“Despite the chorus of Nigeria is not safe, the world’s largest pot of rice was cooked and enjoyed peacefully. Big appreciation to the Nigerian Police and other security forces who made it possible. And the best part? Not a single person stole the pot of rice, now that’s real security!”
The remarks quickly drew backlash, with critics accusing the police spokesperson of trivializing the realities of kidnappings, gunmen attacks, and violent crimes across the country.
A clinical laboratory scientist with the handle @ivoh_ivoh slammed the post, writing:
“If you think the insecurity in Nigeria is just a chorus, it may actually mean you are not in touch with reality. You guys keep mocking us because you feel you are in a privileged position. Shame!”
Similarly, architect @Sir_Adeyy faulted the comparison, saying:
“So based on this, the rest of Nigeria is safe, irrespective of the kidnappings and gunmen attacks on villages. Noted.”
Another critic, @mbakwem_paschal, questioned the police’s priorities:
“The same way the police protected GRV and his supporters in Lagos last week. We know your priorities and they don’t include protecting life and properties except the property is a large pot of rice.”
For @mezieAbia, the incident revealed deeper social concerns.
“Over 20 thousand Nigerians came out to eat free rice showing that there’s hunger in the land. If this does not bother you as a police officer, then there’s a problem,” he posted.
Echoing the sentiment, @eteobong_edem1 wrote:
“Just imagine how you’re exposing @PoliceNG for protecting a pot of rice.”
Not all responses condemned the police. A user identified as @SwankieDiva defended security operatives, particularly those in Lagos, urging Nigerians to recognize their efforts.
“Please give credit to the Lagos state division of the southwest. They are holding the whole nation on their backs without even saying a word. The country’s security is also run by the NPF nationwide but which region is safe? It’s because of the people. Let’s give credit when DUE.”
The controversy has reignited debate about the sensitivity and priorities of Nigeria’s security agencies amid ongoing concerns over safety nationwide.
