The Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has strongly condemned the brutal killing of eight personnel of the Corps by heavily armed gunmen suspected to be kidnappers in Edo State on Friday.

In an official statement released by the Corps’ National Public Relations Officer, Afolabi Babawale, the Commandant General directed the Edo State Commandant and senior management officers to immediately visit the grieving families of the fallen operatives to deliver condolences on behalf of the Corps.

Prof. Audi expressed his deepest sympathy to the bereaved families and emphasized that their loved ones, who paid the supreme price in the line of duty, would be laid to rest with full ceremonial honour and befitting burial rites befitting national heroes.

Recognition of Sacrifice and Commitment

The NSCDC leader noted that the sacrifice, loyalty, and patriotism demonstrated by the slain personnel will never be forgotten, stressing that their legacy will remain a source of inspiration for their colleagues.

He further assured that the Corps would shoulder the medical expenses of officers currently undergoing intensive care treatment, ensuring that they receive the best medical attention to aid quick recovery.

While acknowledging the tragic loss, Prof. Audi maintained that the incident would not weaken the Corps’ resolve to carry out its statutory duty of protecting critical national assets and infrastructure across the country.

Warning Against False Reports

The Commandant General urged the Nigerian public to disregard fabricated and exaggerated reports being circulated in some quarters about the incident. He reiterated his full commitment to the welfare, safety, and morale of NSCDC officers and men, assuring them that their dedication and sacrifices are highly valued.

Collaboration with Security Agencies

Prof. Audi commended the collaboration of other security agencies that have been working closely with the Corps in combing the forests where the kidnappers are believed to be hiding. He explained that these joint operations are aimed at securing the release of the abducted expatriate and ensuring that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are apprehended and brought to justice.

What Transpired on September 5, 2025

Providing clarity on the events, Audi explained that on Friday, September 5, 2025, a heavily armed gang of kidnappers launched a deadly ambush on NSCDC operatives attached to BUA Cement Company, Okpella, in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State.

The operatives, who were deployed to safeguard expatriates working at the company, came under a surprise attack during a routine security patrol.

The ambush tragically claimed the lives of eight gallant NSCDC officers, left four personnel critically injured, one expatriate missing, while four other expatriates were successfully rescued.

He emphasized that the Corps remains unshaken in its resolve to defend Nigeria’s critical infrastructure and condemned in the strongest terms the act of violence that led to the death of the officers.

Prof. Audi concluded by reassuring Nigerians that the NSCDC will continue to intensify efforts, in partnership with other law enforcement agencies, to root out kidnappers and restore peace and security in Edo State and beyond.