NSCDC denies extortion allegation against Oyo commandant

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Oyo State Command has rejected allegations that its State Commandant, Augustine Padonu, demanded money from its personnel. The denial was issued in Ibadan through a statement from the Public Relations Officer, Samuel Opebiyi. The allegations stemmed from a recent online report that claimed personnel were coerced into making financial contributions for the commandant's birthday and a church harvest celebration.

Opebiyi stressed that the commandant never directed or authorized any officer to make donations for personal events. He emphasized that the commandant's birthday and church celebrations were private family affairs and had no connection to official Corps resources. The allegations came shortly after a significant personnel restructuring aimed at improving operational efficiency leading up to the 2027 general elections.

Opebiyi attributed the publication to disgruntled individuals unhappy with the new postings and attempts to discredit the commandant. He reaffirmed the command's commitment to protecting lives and property, supporting other security agencies, and upholding strict discipline. The command spokesperson advised media and the public to verify facts before making claims and urged any officer with legitimate grievances to use official channels for review, warning that misconduct would result in formal disciplinary action.