NSCDC Denies Shielding Officer Accused of Corruption in Akwa Ibom
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Akwa Ibom State has firmly denied allegations that it is shielding one of its top officers from corruption investigations. The officer in question, SC Michael Asibor head of the Anti-Vandal Unit has been accused by an online platform of colluding with illegal oil bunkerers, accepting bribes, and abusing his power.
However, the state command of the NSCDC insists no such petition has been formally received and described the allegations as “malicious” and “unsubstantiated.”
Speaking at a press briefing on Friday, the Command’s spokesperson, SC Friday Ekerete, maintained that the Command has a zero-tolerance policy for corruption and illegality within its ranks. He called on anyone with verifiable complaints to forward them directly to the command headquarters for immediate action.
“To date, we have not received any petition against SC Michael Asibor,” Ekerete said. “The State Commandant, CC Bashar Kefas Hussaini, has assured that any legitimate complaint will be investigated swiftly and transparently.”
False Claims or Targeted Smear?
Ekerete suggested that the allegations were a smear campaign targeting Asibor due to his uncompromising stance against illegal oil bunkering.
“The command is proud of his gallant efforts and unwavering commitment. He has consistently led the fight against petroleum-related crimes in the state,” Ekerete said.
He also disclosed that SC Asibor enjoys strong support from both his superiors and stakeholders in the petroleum industry, having even received a gallantry award for his efforts.
The Truck Saga That Sparked Controversy
Addressing a controversial incident cited by the media, Ekerete explained that in March 2025, the NSCDC intercepted a truck suspected of carrying illegally obtained petroleum products. After the truck was seized, a miscommunication led to a misunderstanding with the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Akwa Ibom Petroleum Product Monitoring Committee (PPMC).
An informant had allegedly misled the PPMC chairman into believing NSCDC officials were illegally escorting the truck. Acting on this, DSS operatives intercepted the truck en route to the NSCDC Exhibit Yard.
Ekerete clarified that the misunderstanding was resolved when both NSCDC and DSS jointly investigated the case, even conducting separate forensic tests on the petroleum samples at the NNPC lab in Port Harcourt. Both results came back negative for any wrongdoing, and the truck was eventually released.
“The DSS followed the NSCDC convoy to verify that the truck was being properly impounded, not smuggled out. This shows there was no foul play on our part,” he added.
Clarification on Legal Terms
Ekerete also took time to educate the public, noting that not all petroleum transport is illegal.
“Bunkering itself is not a crime. What is criminal is illegal bunkering. That distinction matters,” he stated.
Warning to the Media
While appreciating the media’s role as a societal watchdog, the NSCDC warned against publishing unverified reports that could damage reputations and invite legal action.
“Freedom of the press must be accompanied by responsibility. Reckless reporting can ruin careers and destroy public trust,” Ekerete cautioned.
In closing, the NSCDC reiterated its commitment to integrity, transparency, and accountability, urging the public to report any misconduct through the proper channels.
Reference
NSCDC Denies Shielding Officer Accused of Corruption in Akwa Ibom