The Animal Protection Organization of Nigeria (APON) has petitioned the Cross River State Police Command over alleged cases of animal torture, killing and the circulation of violent animal-related content on social media in Calabar.
The petition, dated August 27, 2026, was addressed to the Commissioner of Police, Cross River State Command, through the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Calabar.
In the petition signed by Joseph Odika, Founder of APON, the organisation alleged that a social media account identified as Young Rich TV had repeatedly subjected animals to deliberate physical torture, torment and illegal killing.
According to APON, the alleged acts were recorded on video and published on social media platforms, purportedly to generate online traction, publicity and monetary returns through views.
The organisation described the alleged activities as a serious case of animal cruelty and unlawful content distribution occurring within Calabar, Cross River State.
APON further cited Section 495 of the Criminal Code (Cap C38, LFN 2004), which it said covers offences relating to cruelty to animals, including wilful torture, severe beating and unjustifiable killing.
The organisation also cited the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, alleging that the production, transmission and broadcasting of illegal violent acts through digital platforms could constitute a statutory breach.
APON demands immediate police action
The animal protection group urged the Cross River State Police Command to launch an immediate investigation into the social media account and the physical location of the person behind it.
It also requested the swift arrest and prosecution of the alleged offender, saying such action would serve as a deterrent against animal cruelty.
In addition, APON asked the police to seize any surviving animals allegedly in the suspect's possession and hand them over to the organisation for urgent veterinary assessment and care.
The group said it was prepared to assist the police with its investigation, provide expert witness testimony and support the treatment and care of any animals rescued from the suspect.
Copies of the petition were sent to the Police Public Relations Officer of the Cross River State Command, the Nigeria Police Force Cybercrime Unit, Calabar Branch, and the Inspector-General of Police, Police Headquarters, Abuja.
The allegations contained in the petition have not been independently established, and it is not stated in the document whether the police have commenced an investigation or made any arrest.
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