Akwa Ibom NSCDC Arrests 39 in Militia Training Bust

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has arrested 39 people after shutting down an illegal group posing as a private guard company in Akwa Ibom State.

The NSCDC Akwa Ibom Commandant, Geraldine Abetianbe, shared this with journalists in Uyo on Tuesday.

She told the News Agency of Nigeria that the group, called Uniquely Network Rescue Services, was found doing unauthorized harsh paramilitary training. They were also recruiting young people under false claims.

The commandant explained that, based on intelligence, NSCDC operatives raided the group's training site on May 29 and arrested the suspects.

The operation led to the arrest of the Uyo coordinator. They also recovered wooden guns, uniforms, training manuals, and membership forms.

"During the raid, a total of 17 group members and 22 new recruits were arrested.

"They are currently being profiled to find out the real aim of the group. The command is taking steps to stop any harmful intentions and actions," she said.

She noted that initial investigations showed the group was operating without the required PGC license as per the NSCDC Act 2003, as amended. Further checks revealed that the group's headquarters is located outside Akwa Ibom.

Abetianbe warned that using wooden guns for training is a serious warning sign. This could be a cover for training militia groups. She emphasized that the command would not ignore the risk of militias forming in Akwa Ibom.

"With the 2027 general elections coming, 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 true purpose in training young Nigerians in paramilitary methods.

"The corps strongly condemns the actions of this illegal group. We will not accept any outfit trying to operate outside the law," she said.

She reminded the public that the NSCDC is the only agency allowed to license, regulate, and monitor private guard companies in Nigeria.

She urged parents to be careful about the groups their children join. They should be wary of being tricked into joining a militia group with bad intentions.

The commandant assured that all suspects found guilty will face charges in court once investigations and profiling are complete.