NSCDC FCT chief warns armed officers: guns are not for intimidating civilians

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the Federal Capital Territory has warned its armed officers against misusing their firearms and abusing members of the public, saying anyone found guilty will be disciplined.

The FCT Commandant, Olusola Odumosu, gave the warning in Abuja while opening the second edition of a periodic psychological evaluation and fitness test for armed personnel. The exercise was organised by the command's Forensic Investigation and Psychological Service Unit at its headquarters in Wuse Zone 5.

According to a statement by the command's public relations officer, DSC Monica Ojobi, Odumosu said the uniform is a symbol of authority and must never be used to harass, oppress or intimidate civilians.

"Your uniform and your arms are not meant for intimidation of the people you are required to protect," he said.

He said firearms should only be used as a last resort, and only when an officer's life is in danger. He also urged officers to stay calm when provoked, no matter how serious the offence involved.

Why the warning matters now

The warning comes after an alleged misconduct by an NSCDC officer at Kubwa Market, which drew widespread reaction on social media. Odumosu said he was unhappy about the incident and that it showed why regular mental fitness checks for officers who carry guns are needed.

He said the Corps has zero tolerance for misconduct, especially against the civilians it was set up to protect, and that rank or position would not shield any officer found violating its ethical standards.

Odumosu also encouraged officers facing psychological or emotional difficulties to speak out and seek professional help rather than let such problems affect their judgment on duty.

"If you are not mentally stable, seek advice and speak out," he said.

He reminded the personnel that their main job is to protect critical national assets and infrastructure as well as the lives and property of residents.

Participants at the exercise came from divisions, area commands, departments and units of the FCT Command. Odumosu asked them to take the sessions seriously and apply what they learn to their work.

For ordinary residents, the message is a simple one: an officer's gun is meant to protect them, not to frighten them. Whether that promise holds will depend on how the command handles the Kubwa Market case and others like it.