Akwa Ibom NSCDC arrests 39 in militia training bust

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has arrested 39 suspects for running an illegal organization acting as a private security firm in Akwa Ibom State.

Geraldine Abetianbe, the NSCDC Akwa Ibom Commandant, shared this news with reporters in Uyo on Tuesday.

The News Agency of Nigeria reported that the group, called Uniquely Network Rescue Services, was caught doing unauthorized military-style training and recruiting young people under false claims.

Abetianbe said that based on intelligence, NSCDC operatives raided the group's training ground on May 29 and arrested the suspects.

She added that the operation also led to the arrest of the Uyo coordinator and the recovery of wooden guns, uniforms, training manuals, and membership forms.

"During the raid, we arrested 17 members of the group and 22 new recruits. They are currently being profiled to find out the real purpose of the group. We are taking steps to stop any harmful intentions and actions," she said.

She noted that initial investigations showed the group was operating without a Private Guard Company license as required by the NSCDC Act 2003. Further checks showed that the organization’s headquarters is outside Akwa Ibom.

Abetianbe warned that using wooden guns for training is a major concern. This could be a cover for training militia groups. She emphasized that the command will not ignore the possibility of militias forming in Akwa Ibom.

"The 2027 general elections are coming up. We cannot allow a group to recruit young Nigerians and put them through tough training with wooden guns and horsewhips. They are not registered or licensed, which raises questions about their real intentions," she said.

She condemned the actions of this illegal group and stated that the NSCDC would not tolerate any organization operating outside the law.

Abetianbe reminded everyone that the NSCDC is the only agency allowed to license, regulate, and monitor Private Guard Companies in Nigeria.

She also advised parents to be careful about the groups their children join to avoid falling into militia traps with bad intentions.

The commandant promised that all suspects found guilty will be taken to court once investigations and profiling are finished.