NSCDC seals seven illegal private security guard firms in Abuja

From Isaac Anumihe, Abuja

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, has sealed off seven Private Guard Companies (PGCs) for operating illegally in the capital territory.

The defaulting private guard companies were sealed by the NSCDC FCT Commandant, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, during an operational tour in Abuja on Wednesday, May 28.

The illegal private guard companies sealed include CEWARA Security, Wuse 2; Most Bright Security, Jabi; Security China and Ebowise Security, both in Jabi; Barumark Security, Wuye; Segad Security Protection Services, Prince and Princess Estate; and Prixair Security.

The FCT Commandant stated that of the seven sealed PGCs, six were sealed for operating without licences, while one was sealed for operating with an expired licence.

He further noted that they were sealed for offences including unauthorised use of insignia, posing threats to national security and public interest, failure to register as a Private Guard Company, employment of guards without approval, and refusal to obtain a licence.

Odumosu explained that, according to the laws governing the establishment of PGCs in Nigeria, foreigners are prohibited from operating private guard companies, and any entity employing more than one private guard must register and obtain a licence from the NSCDC.

“As the regulatory agency, we must ensure compliance. According to the provisions of the law, before you can operate a PGC, apart from registering with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), you must also apply for a licence through the NSCDC,” he said.

The commandant emphasised that the sealing was crucial to ensuring internal security in the FCT.

He further attributed some kidnapping cases and insecurity in the territory to the lack of proper profiling of security guards.

“Some operators of PGCs don’t understand the implications of their actions on national security. Many of them sew uniforms for random people without conducting proper background checks on their staff,” he said.

Odumosu stated that the corps will continue routine operations to seal non-compliant PGCs to serve as a deterrent to others.