The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has detained several of its officers following allegations that they extorted ₦5.2 million from a traveler along the Ado-Ekiti to Akure route.
In a statement released on Wednesday, NSCDC spokesperson Afolabi Babawale confirmed that the implicated officers have been summoned to the Corps’ national headquarters in Abuja for a thorough investigation into the incident.
The disciplinary move comes after a viral video emerged online showing uniformed NSCDC personnel allegedly extorting money from travelers. The footage sparked widespread condemnation and prompted Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo to order an immediate investigation.
“Unprofessional and Disgraceful” — CG Audi
Responding to the incident, NSCDC Commandant-General Ahmed Audi described the actions of the officers as “unprofessional” and a gross violation of the Corps’ Code of Ethics and Standard Operating Procedures.
“The Corps will not condone any act of misconduct. The public must be protected, not preyed upon,” Audi said.
The detained officers are now facing a disciplinary panel, with the Civil Defence disciplinary committee expected to determine appropriate sanctions based on findings of the investigation.
Not the First Time
This isn’t the first time the NSCDC has cracked down on internal misconduct. In 2022, the Corps dismissed 15 officers for what it termed “disgraceful conduct,” while 16 others were sanctioned for offenses deemed as gross misconduct—with full approval from the Civil Defence, Corrections, Fire and Immigration Board.
Audi reiterated the Corps’ commitment to transparency, accountability, and zero tolerance for corruption, assuring the public that no officer would be shielded from the consequences of their actions.
He also encouraged citizens to continue reporting abuses, promising protection for whistleblowers and improved service delivery from NSCDC personnel nationwide.
