The Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Rivers, Mr Abu Tambuwal, has warned the personnel against intimidating members of the public while performing their duties.
Tambuwal’s warning while addressing officers and men of the command in Port Harcourt, is contained in a statement issued by the command’s spokesman, DSC Olufemi Ayodele, on Wednesday.
“I urge you to desist from engaging in confrontations with any individual who challenges you while discharging your statutory duties.
“Rather than confront such individuals, you should educate them, so that they can become fully aware that you (officer) are acting within the ambit of the law,” he said.
The commandant said Nigerians expected much from the NSCDC, being the lead agency in the security of critical national assets and infrastructure.
“So, we must be absolutely committed and guided by the mandate of the NSCDC in carrying out our respective operations, he said.
Tambuwal said the ammended NSCDC Act, 2003, empowered the personnel to arrest with or without a warrant as well as detain, investigate and institute legal proceedings, in accordance with the provisions of the constitution.
“But, we must maintain civility, fairness, justice and integrity in our approach to issues and avoid infringing on the fundamental human rights of citizens.
“We must show concern for the civil populace and come to their rescue during emergencies, as this is the bedrock of modern security system and compliance with global best practice.
“Consequently, if for any reason an officer is caught violating the code of ethics and standard operating procedures of the corps, decisive actions will be taken in due course,” he warned.
He gave the assurance that the command would continue to be diligent in the protection of power transmission facilities, oil pipelines and telecommunication cables and equipment across the country.
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According to him, the command will also give priority attention to training, supervision, monitoring and issuance of licence to private guard companies and rescue of victims during emergencies, among others.
