The Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has declared an uncompromising war against the perpetrators responsible for the brutal ambush that claimed the lives of eight of his gallant men and officers, which led to the kidnapping of a Chinese expatriate at Okpella, Edo State.
Audi, in a decisive move on Tuesday, launched a special intelligence squad operation with a clear mandate: comb the forests relentlessly, apprehend the killers, rescue the abducted expatriate, and bring all perpetrators to swift justice.
The NSCDC public relations officer, Babawale Afolabi, emphasised that the security around the BUA Cement Company has been significantly intensified to safeguard indigenous workers, expatriates, and critical infrastructure.
This is coming after a vicious attack on Friday night, September 5, 2025, where NSCDC operatives assigned to protect critical infrastructure at the BUA Cement Company were ambushed in a fierce gun battle that lasted over three hours.
Despite their unwavering courage and fierce resistance, eight officers made the ultimate sacrifice of defending lives and property. Meanwhile, four expatriates working at the quarry were rescued amid the chaos.
In a strong message to the public, CG Audi appealed for any information that could help track down the criminals responsible.
He reaffirmed the Corps’ unyielding commitment to its statutory mandate: “We will not bow to intimidation or threats from subversive elements.
Our focus remains unshaken, and our strategies sharpened to protect lives and property.”
While commending the unmatched resilience and dedication of the fallen heroes, he vowed that their sacrifice would not be in vain. “The blood of our officers demands justice. We will not rest until the killers are brought to account,” Audi declared with resolve.
To this end, he said a joint operation involving the NSCDC’s elite Special Intelligence Squad, Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU), Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT), and Special Protection Units has been deployed to the volatile area.
The operation is under CC Dandaura Appollos, head of the CG’s Special Intelligence Squad. It is tasked with executing a full offensive to neutralise the threat, recover the kidnapped expatriate, and restore peace.
He said, “Beyond kinetic actions, the Corps will deepen its engagement with local communities through civil relations programs to tackle security challenges holistically.
He concluded, “The NSCDC stands united and resolute, ready to confront and defeat any force that threatens the safety and security of Nigerians and the foreign workers who contribute to the nation’s development.”