In a decisive move following public outcry, the Commandant General (CG) of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr. Ahmed Audi, has ordered the immediate detention of officers allegedly involved in the extortion of ₦5.2 million from a group of youths traveling from Ekiti to Akure. The officers are accused of coercing money from the individuals, an act that was caught on a viral video.
The investigation into the matter was swiftly launched by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on Tuesday, following public outrage over the incident. Dr. Audi condemned the behavior of the officers, labeling it as unprofessional and a clear violation of the NSCDC's Code of Ethics and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).
"The conduct of the officers involved in this case is unacceptable and goes against everything the NSCDC stands for," Audi said in a statement. "This action is in direct contradiction to the values of professionalism and integrity that are expected of our personnel."
The officers accused in the viral video have been detained at the Corps' National Headquarters in Abuja as the disciplinary committee, established by the government, conducts a thorough investigation into the case. Audi emphasized that the NSCDC would not tolerate any form of extortion, harassment, or intimidation, and vowed that those found guilty would face severe consequences under the Public Service Rules (PSR).
"Any officer found guilty of this corrupt act will be held fully accountable and will face the full wrath of the law," Audi reassured the public. He also urged citizens to continue to cooperate with the Corps and provide any information necessary for improving its services, assuring them that the NSCDC would not shield any wrongdoers within its ranks.
This incident has raised concerns about the conduct of some NSCDC officers, but the Corps has vowed to take the necessary steps to maintain public trust and ensure that its personnel uphold the highest standards of conduct.
