The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has reaffirmed its mandate to manage crises, provide rapid disaster response, and offer rescue, relief, and rehabilitation services during both natural and man-made emergencies.
The statement follows a confrontation involving NSCDC personnel and unlicensed oil and gas operators in Ondo State.
The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), the technical and commercial regulator for Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, had requested collaboration with the Ondo NSCDC command to enforce compliance with safety standards in gas retail operations.
During routine enforcement, NSCDC officers approached two operators who failed to produce a valid license or safety clearance from NMDPRA. Instead of cooperating, the men resisted the confiscation of their equipment.
SC Daniel Aidamenbor, Public Relations Officer of NSCDC Ondo State Command, explained:
“NSCDC does not issue licenses. Our role is to conduct compliance checks. During a routine visit, any retailer is expected to produce a license issued by the regulatory body. Failure to do so leads to the confiscation of equipment with instructions to obtain proper licensing.”
The officers’ attempt to confiscate the scale and cylinder was met with resistance, prompting the application of minimal force to carry out the operation. In the ensuing scuffle, the suspects attacked NSCDC personnel, inflicting injuries.
“Attacking officers, causing bodily harm, and obstructing them from performing lawful duties is punishable under the law,” Aidamenbor added.
The State Commandant of NSCDC Ondo has ordered a full-scale investigation into the incident and recalled the officers to base for debriefing. The corps also urged anyone with evidence of extortion or abuse of power against NSCDC personnel in Ondo State to come forward.
