Category: Security

The Federal Road Safety Corps has recalled an entire patrol team following allegations of bribery reported by an online media platform.

Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed directed the recall to allow for a thorough investigation and possible disciplinary action.

According to a statement issued by the Corps Public Education Officer, Assistant Corps Marshal Olusegun Ogungbemide, on Thursday, the corps is committed to upholding discipline and has a zero-tolerance policy for corruption and misconduct.

He noted that if the operatives in question are found guilty, they could face dismissal and criminal prosecution.

The statement read in part, “The Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps Shehu Mohammed has taken decisive action in response to a viral publication by Premium Media outlet alleging bribery by some of the patrol operatives of the Corps; by ordering the immediate recall of the entire patrol team mentioned in the report for thorough investigation and necessary sanction.

“Being an organisation that uphold standards at all times, with established procedures to check indiscipline, corruption and patrol misconducts, if found guilty of bribery or other forms of corruption, the operatives will face severe disciplinary action, including dismissal and prosecution where necessary.”

The Corps also responded to claims in the report concerning a 2021 arrest of FRSC officials by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission. It clarified that while corruption is a nationwide challenge, FRSC has consistently taken proactive steps to rid its ranks of unethical behavior.

Highlighting past efforts, the Corps said it has worked closely with the ICPC and the Department of State Services to conduct joint surveillance operations targeting corrupt officials.

According to a statement, these operations reportedly led to the arrest of “over 70 personnel in one year,” with many facing internal sanctions and prosecution.

Further strengthening its anti-corruption measures, FRSC partnered with the Akin Fadeyi Foundation and the MacArthur Foundation to launch the Flag-It app, a digital platform that enables the public to report cases of extortion and misconduct by FRSC officers.

A newly launched internal mobile app also allows for real-time reporting and recognition of officers who uphold the Corps’ standards.

The corps marshal encouraged the public and the media to remain vigilant and continue supporting FRSC’s efforts by using available tools to report any observed misconduct on roads.

President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring the comprehensive transformation of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies.

Tinubu also assured all that the Federal Government will continue to invest in tools, training, and welfare initiatives to boost police professionalism and morale.

The President made this known on Wednesday at the second edition of the Nigeria Police Award and Commendation Ceremony held in Abuja.

The remarks were delivered on his behalf by the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

He said, “My administration remains steadfast in its resolve to reform and reposition the Nigeria Police Force. We recognise that modern policing requires modern tools, intelligence-led strategies, robust community engagement, and continuous training.”

According to him, the government will sustain investments in cutting-edge equipment, technological innovations, capacity-building programmes, and welfare schemes designed to improve operational efficiency and elevate the morale of police officers across all ranks.

While expressing confidence in ongoing reforms, Tinubu charged police personnel to remain professional, accountable, and committed to their constitutional duties.

“You are entrusted with the safety and rights of the Nigerian people. The power you wield is not for intimidation, but for protection; not for abuse, but for service.

“Uphold the rule of law. Reject misconduct and corruption. Let your actions reflect honour, integrity, and discipline”, the President added.

Congratulating the recipients of the 2024 Police Awards, Tinubu praised their dedication to service and urged them not to rest on their laurels.

In his remarks, Akpabio announced a personal donation of ₦5m to the family of the late Assistant Commissioner of Police, Aniedi Cecilia Udoh, who was honoured posthumously with the 2024 Community Policing Advocate of the Year award.

Udoh, who passed away in May while in active service, was the Area Commander of Ahoada in Rivers State and hailed from Akwa Ibom State.

Highlighting his longstanding support for the Police, Akpabio recalled his efforts as Governor of Akwa Ibom State, where he provided the Force with 350 patrol vehicles equipped with communication gadgets, four armoured personnel carriers, and marine police infrastructure.

The former governor also said he built a mobile police base and a police secondary school at no cost to the Force.

“As Senate President, I have facilitated the completion of 10 police stations in my senatorial district. I am not tired of supporting the Police.

“On behalf of the National Assembly, I assure you that we will continue to appropriate the necessary resources to enhance the welfare and strength of the Nigeria Police Force,” he said.

In his welcome address, Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, stressed that the transformation of the Police Force is not just a slogan but a continuous commitment.

“This is not just about awards; it’s about legacy. Policing is not a transactional duty—it is a transformational mission, and the Nigerian people remain our most vital partners in this journey”, Egbetokun said.

The Federal Capital Territory Police Command spokesperson, Superintendent Josephine Adeh, has emerged as the Police Public Relations Officer of the Year at the 2024 Nigeria Police Force Awards and Commendations ceremony held in Abuja on Wednesday night.

Adeh was honoured for her effective deployment of social media in enhancing police-citizen engagement and for her professionalism in managing security communication.

She edged out other strong contenders, DSP Chinaka Chioma of Abia State Command and SP Ikenganiya Anthony of Anambra State Command, to clinch the prestigious award.

The event, which spotlighted gallantry, integrity, and excellence within the force, also saw the Officer-in-Charge of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, FCT Command, SP Mustapha Mohammed, take home the Gallantry Award of the Year.

Mohammed was recognised for his operational bravery, beating CSP Isiyaku Suleiman of Katsina State Command and ASP Robinson Julius of Delta State Command.

Also receiving high praise was SP Obi Sentome of the Zone 16 Cybercrime Section, who was awarded for exemplary integrity after rejecting a $17,000 bribe offered to release a suspect in custody.

Inspector Nwuju Godstime of the Traffic Department, Elekahia Division in Rivers State, was named Traffic Warden of the Year, topping Inspectors Hussaini Jidauna of Adamawa and Alabi Kayode of Kwara State Commands.

In the Divisional Police Officer of the Year category, SP Garba Ibrahim of Jibia Division, Katsina State Command, emerged winner ahead of CSP Mohammed Padah (Nasarawa), CSP Ejike Alaribe (Imo), and the DPO of Ekpan, Delta State Command.

Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, was among several senior officers honoured with the 2024 Special Achievement Awards. Other recipients included AIG Asihatu Baju, DCP Ahmed Sanusi (Commander, Intelligence Response Team), CSP Shaba Gboayako (Chief Security Officer to the Imo State Governor), and CSP Ameh Lydia (Force Insurance Officer).

Area Commander for Owerri, Imo State, ACP Abattam Michael, won the Area Commander of the Year award, ahead of his counterparts from Karu, Nasarawa, ACP Amanyi Christopher and Area Commander, Bori, Rivers State Command, ACP Ali Gumel.

The Nigeria Police Force Cybercrime Centre, headed by CP Uche Henry, and the Force’s aviation unit (Police Pilots) received the Inspector General’s Special Recognition Awards.

In the sports category, CPL Juliet Chukwu of the Ebonyi State Command was named Police Sports Person of the Year, besting CPL Victor Ikechukwu (Police Training School, Benin) and CPL Oka Eworo (Police College, Ikeja).

Addressing attendees at the ceremony, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, commended the awardees for embodying courage, integrity, and excellence in service.

“The officers we celebrate today are not extraordinary because of fame or fortune. They are extraordinary because of their refusal to be ordinary. You are the embodiment of quiet heroism, and tonight, we stand in tribute to your legacy,” the IG said.

He described the awards as a deliberate shift from routine recognition to merit-based celebration, stressing that the selection process was rigorous and transparent, with nominations drawn from across the force and final decisions made purely on merit and impact.

Egbetokun called on non-recipients to be inspired rather than discouraged, reminding them that “excellence is not a finish line; it is a daily standard.”

He also paid tribute to fallen officers, describing them as “eternal sentinels of peace,” and reiterated the force’s commitment to innovation and community-based policing.

“The future of policing in Nigeria must be smarter, faster, more trusted, and unapologetically people-focused,” he stated.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has deployed over 28,000 operatives across the country to ensure a peaceful and secure holiday period.

According to a directive issued by the Commandant General of the Corps, Dr Ahmed Audi, operatives from several specialised units including the Intelligence Directorate, Special Female Squad, Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad, Mining Marshals, Quick Response Tactical Team, Counter Terrorism Unit, Operations Department, and Special Weapon and Tactics have been mobilised.

Audi, in a statement signed by the corps spokesperson, Afolabi Babawale, on Wednesday, stated that the large-scale deployment was part of the corps’ ongoing efforts to protect critical national assets and infrastructure, as well as to safeguard lives and property across the nation.

He warned of the potential for criminal activities during the festive period and stressed the need to forestall any threats posed by unscrupulous elements.

Speaking during a strategic security meeting with top management, state commandants, and heads of formations, Audi called for enhanced intelligence gathering through community engagement.

According to the statement, the CG highlighted the importance of credible tip-offs in supporting successful security operations, stating that no single agency has a monopoly on tackling insecurity.

He also charged the 36 state commandants and the FCT Command to foster effective synergy and collaboration with other security agencies and local communities.

According to him, such coordinated efforts are crucial in addressing security challenges, including insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, vandalism, illegal bunkering, and farmers/herders clashes.

“We also call on members of the public to support this course of action so that together we can attain the goal of effective security coverage across board,” Audi said.

The CG further urged private security operators to contribute by promptly sharing intelligence and strengthening information networks, especially in times of emergency.

The Federal Road Safety Corps, Kano Sector Command has commenced the 2025 Eid-el-Kabir special patrol from Thursday, June 5 to Wednesday, June 11, 2025.

This is contained in a statement released by the sector command’s Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Labaran, a copy of which was made available to PUNCH Online on Thursday.

He said the initiative is in anticipation of the high volume of human and vehicular traffic associated with the Sallah celebrations and aims to ensure a hitch-free festive period.

“The objective of this special operation is to enhance the Corps’ visibility on highways across Kano through the early deployment of personnel and logistics to reduce road traffic crashes across the state,” the statement reads.

In addition, Labaran said the special patrol will ensure strict enforcement of road traffic laws and regulations, prompt rescue and response to distress calls as well as speedy removal of obstructions from the highways, among others.

“To achieve these objectives, the command will deploy 1,889 personnel, comprising 1,348 Regular Marshals and 541 Special Marshals, 24/7 standby provision of five ambulance service points for prompt rescue and emergency response,” it added.

According to the statement, mobile courts would be deployed to handle infractions related to road traffic crashes during the period.

“The Sector Commander, CC MB Bature, has warned against dangerous/reckless driving, overloading, car racing, underage driving and other traffic violations during and after the Eid-el-Kabir celebration,” the statement noted.

While wishing the people a peaceful and hitch-free Sallah celebration, the sector commander urged all road users to comply with traffic regulations to ensure a safe and joyous Eid-el-Kabir.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has deployed over 28,000 operatives across the country to ensure a peaceful and secure holiday period.

According to a directive issued by the Commandant General of the Corps, Dr Ahmed Audi, operatives from several specialised units including the Intelligence Directorate, Special Female Squad, Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad, Mining Marshals, Quick Response Tactical Team, Counter Terrorism Unit, Operations Department, and Special Weapon and Tactics have been mobilised.

Audi, in a statement signed by the corps spokesperson, Afolabi Babawale, on Wednesday, stated that the large-scale deployment was part of the corps’ ongoing efforts to protect critical national assets and infrastructure, as well as to safeguard lives and property across the nation.

He warned of the potential for criminal activities during the festive period and stressed the need to forestall any threats posed by unscrupulous elements.

Speaking during a strategic security meeting with top management, state commandants, and heads of formations, Audi called for enhanced intelligence gathering through community engagement.

According to the statement, the CG highlighted the importance of credible tip-offs in supporting successful security operations, stating that no single agency has a monopoly on tackling insecurity.

He also charged the 36 state commandants and the FCT Command to foster effective synergy and collaboration with other security agencies and local communities.

According to him, such coordinated efforts are crucial in addressing security challenges, including insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, vandalism, illegal bunkering, and farmers/herders clashes.

“We also call on members of the public to support this course of action so that together we can attain the goal of effective security coverage across board,” Audi said.

The CG further urged private security operators to contribute by promptly sharing intelligence and strengthening information networks, especially in times of emergency.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has deployed 2,900 personnel across Kwara State ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations to ensure a peaceful and secure festive period.

State Commandant, Mohammed Umar, said officers and men have been strategically positioned in all 16 local government areas to safeguard prayer grounds, recreational centres, critical infrastructure, and other public spaces.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by the command’s spokesman, Ayoola Michael, the NSCDC said Area Commanders, Divisional Officers, and Tactical Units have been directed to remain on high alert and sustain community engagement throughout the celebration.

“Our presence will be visible, coordinated, and reassuring. We have assessed the risk areas, identified critical points, and implemented a multi-layered approach to ensure a safe and peaceful celebration,” he stated

The command also warned individuals or groups against using the festive atmosphere to incite unrest, vandalise infrastructure, or engage in criminal acts, stressing that any such behaviour would attract swift legal consequences.

While congratulating Muslims on the Eid celebration, Umar urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.

Following the recent attack on its Semegu office in Kumbotso Local Government Area of Kano State, the Kano State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has provided an explanation for the incident.

This was outlined in a statement by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Ibrahim Abdullahi, a copy of which was made available to PUNCH Online on Wednesday.

The statement read, “On Monday, 2 June 2025, at approximately 8 pm, two hoodlums armed with knives attempted to snatch a phone at Gwazaye, Kumbotso Local Government Area. One of the assailants confronted a local resident who was making a phone call, attempting to rob him of his handset. The hoodlums approached him, with one wrestling the resident and holding a knife to snatch the phone.”

“According to eyewitnesses, a member of the local vigilante group intervened. While the thug was trying to seize the phone, he was overpowered by the victim, and in the process, the assailant (now deceased) was stabbed in the neck.”

“The victim, along with three neighbours, promptly reported the incident to the Civil Defence Outpost at Semegu, Kumbotso Local Government.”

“Regrettably, criminal elements armed with dangerous weapons regrouped and attacked our office, mistakenly believing those involved in the incident were our personnel.”

The statement further clarified that no Corps personnel were involved in the altercation.

“For the avoidance of doubt, none of the civil defence personnel participated in the incident. It is clear that those who came to report the phone robbery to our office were violently attacked alongside our staff,” Abdullahi said.

He also refuted rumours circulating in some quarters that NSCDC personnel had killed a suspected thug.

“The NSCDC neither maimed nor killed any suspected thug in the area. For transparency and fairness, the case is currently under discreet investigation by the Police Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Kano, with further action pending,” he added.