NSCDC CG orders immediate withdrawal of petition against police, seeks joint investigation

The Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has ordered the immediate withdrawal of a petition allegedly filed by the Commander of the Corps’ Mining Marshal Unit, Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) Attah John Onoja, against officers of the Nigeria Police Force.

The petition, submitted to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, alleged an attack and shooting of Mining Marshal personnel in Nasarawa State by some police officers, as well as obstruction of efforts to prosecute arrested illegal miners.

However, in a swift response, the NSCDC leadership expressed strong disapproval, clarifying that the Commander acted without proper authorization.

“The Commander of the Mining Marshal acted outside his purview by filing the petition without the authorisation of the Management,” the Commandant General said.

“The Corps Management therefore dissociates itself from the petition, and I have directed that it be withdrawn immediately to allow for a smooth and amicable resolution of the issues raised,” he added.

The CG emphasized that the relationship between the Nigeria Police Force and the NSCDC remains solid, noting that any disagreements should be addressed through inter-agency collaboration and mutual respect.

“The office of the IGP has been very supportive of the Corps’ operations, always encouraging the Police to work closely with us and other services to enhance national security and achieve the goals of Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” Dr. Audi stated.

In a conciliatory move, the NSCDC helmsman also requested a joint investigation into the incident to establish the facts.

“We are working towards a joint investigation with the Police to unravel what actually transpired,” he said. “The goal is to find common ground and move forward in unity.”

He further extended an apology to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), expressing regret over any embarrassment the petition may have caused.

“I have spoken to the IGP on the matter and sincerely apologise for the embarrassment that the petition might have caused,” the CG noted. “This matter will now be resolved administratively and without rancour.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Audi assured that appropriate internal disciplinary measures are being considered in response to the officer’s unauthorized actions.

“The Management is already working out appropriate measures to take on the officer,” he confirmed.

Reaffirming his dedication to national security, the NSCDC boss stressed the importance of synergy between security agencies.

“I remain committed to collaborating effectively with the Nigeria Police in our collective effort to stamp out crime and criminality across the country,” he said.

The statement was signed by CSC Afolabi Babawale, the National Public Relations Officer of the NSCDC.