NSCDC Raids Illegal Private Guard Company in Akwa Ibom, Arrests 39 Suspects

By Uko Etim

UYO—The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) carried out a raid on an illegal private guard company in Akwa Ibom, arresting 39 individuals.

NSCDC Akwa Ibom Commandant Mrs Geraldine Abetianbe disclosed the operation during a briefing to journalists in Uyo on Tuesday.

The targeted group, named Uniquely Network Rescue Services, was found conducting unauthorized paramilitary‑style training and recruiting youths under false pretenses.

Acting on intelligence, NSCDC operatives raided the training facility on May 29 and apprehended the suspects.

During the operation, the Uyo coordinator of the group was arrested and the authorities seized wooden guns, uniforms, training manuals, and membership forms.

"A total of 17 members of the group and 22 new recruits were arrested," Abetianbe said. "They are currently undergoing intensive profiling to determine the true motive of the group as the command is taking proactive steps to curb any subversive intentions and acts."

The commandant noted that preliminary investigations revealed the organisation operated without the required Private Guard Company licence under the NSCDC Act 2003, as amended. She also said the group’s headquarters are located outside Akwa Ibom.

Abetianbe warned that the use of wooden guns for training was a red flag, potentially masking militia training. She stressed that the command would not tolerate any group fostering militias in the state.

"With the 2027 general elections approaching, we cannot allow a group to recruit young Nigerians and subject them to rigorous training with wooden guns, horsewhips, and similar tactics," she said. "Their lack of registration or licensing raises serious concerns about the purpose of their paramilitary‑style training."

"The Corps strongly condemns the activities of this illegal outfit. We will not tolerate any group operating outside the law," Abetianbe added.

She reminded the public that the NSCDC remains the sole agency authorized to license, regulate, and monitor Private Guard Companies in Nigeria.

The commandant urged parents to scrutinise the organisations their children join to avoid deception into militia groups with nefarious motives.

Efforts are underway to arrest the national leadership of the organisation and neutralise the threat once and for all. The commandant assured that all culpable suspects would be charged in court as soon as investigations and profiling are complete.

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