The Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr Ahmed Audi, has ordered the immediate detention of officers accused of extorting N5.2 million from some youths in Ekiti State. The action follows a directive for a comprehensive investigation issued by the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on Tuesday, after a viral video showed NSCDC personnel allegedly involved in the extortion of a young man travelling from Ekiti to Akure, the Ondo State capital.

In a statement released by the Corps’ Public Relations Officer, Babawale Afolabi, Dr Audi condemned the actions of the officers, describing their conduct as unprofessional and a direct violation of the NSCDC Code of Ethics and Standard Operating Procedure. He ordered the transfer of the implicated personnel to the NSCDC national headquarters in Abuja, where they will be held in detention pending the outcome of a disciplinary inquiry initiated by the government.

The Corps’ leadership has reiterated its commitment to accountability and transparency, with Dr Audi assuring the public that any officer found guilty will be sanctioned in accordance with the Public Service Rules. He emphasised that the NSCDC will not tolerate corruption or misconduct among its ranks and warned that individuals will be held responsible for their actions.

Dr Audi urged members of the public not to lose faith in the Corps, encouraging citizens to continue sharing information that could aid the agency’s efforts without fear of harassment or extortion. He reaffirmed the Corps’ dedication to protecting the rights and dignity of Nigerians and promised that no personnel would be shielded from justice if found culpable.