66th Independence Day: NSCDC beefs up security, deploys 3,000 in FCT

NSCDC

From Isaac Anumihe, Abuja

Ahead of Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary on October 1, the Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, Dr Olusola Odumosu, has deployed 3,000 personnel across the FCT to ensure a peaceful celebration.

In a statement, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the FCT Command, Monica Ojobi, said the deployment was aimed at enforcing law and order and ensuring the safety of residents, visitors and property before, during and after the anniversary.

She said the deployment was also targeted at protecting Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) in the FCT and its environs.

According to her, the personnel deployed comprised officers from various specialised departments and units of the corps, including the Arms Squad, Female Strike Force, Crack Squad, Agro Rangers, Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosive (CBRNE) Unit, and Counter-Terrorism Unit.

She added that the command had also mounted a massive security presence in volatile areas and at potential soft targets, including shopping malls, recreational centres, markets, motor parks, amusement parks and locations housing critical national assets and infrastructure.

“In a move to ensure proactiveness and prevent emergencies or unforeseen circumstances, men of our undercover unit have already been deployed for covert operations and surveillance.

“Black spots, like uncompleted buildings that harbour criminals, are also covered to avert security breaches,” the statement said.

Ojobi said Odumosu had directed all area commanders and divisional officers to ensure that their respective area councils were adequately secured and that their presence was felt throughout the celebration period.

“As usual, I will not tolerate any form of security breaches. All hands must be on deck. Ensure your personnel comply wholesomely,” Odumosu warned.

The FCT commandant charged all personnel to remain disciplined and exhibit good conduct, while working in synergy with other security agencies to protect lives and property as well as the government’s critical national assets and infrastructure.

He also directed personnel to adhere strictly to the rules of engagement, warning them to avoid harassment and intimidation of citizens and accidental discharge of firearms.

Odumosu assured residents of the FCT of a safe and peaceful Independence Day celebration, saying the command would maintain security before, during and after the anniversary.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements, individuals or groups to the nearest security agency.

“We are ready to ensure the celebration is peaceful. You have a responsibility to carry out. You must be proactive, vigilant and ready to cooperate with us for our common good,” he said.

The commandant also warned criminals and vandals to stay away from critical national assets and infrastructure, stressing that NSCDC covert officers and patrol teams had been deployed across the city and would deal decisively with offenders.

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