NSCDC Debunks Extortion Allegations Against Oyo Commandant, Denies Compulsory Contributions

By Victoria Isaac 

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oyo State Command, has debunked allegations that its State Commandant, Commandant Augustine Padonu, compelled personnel deployed on beats across the state to make financial contributions for his birthday and church harvest.

The Command described the allegations as false, stressing that Padonu neither instructed nor authorised any officer or personnel to make contributions towards the two events.

The Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Command, SC Samuel Olubanjo Opebiyi, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday in reaction to a publication dated September 29, 2026, which alleged that the Commandant operated a scheme of extortion and compulsory financial contributions among personnel.

Opebiyi said the birthday and church harvest referenced in the publication took place in early August, questioning why the allegations were being raised weeks later, particularly following the recent redeployment and restructuring of Command formations.

According to him, the exercise, carried out on September 24 for operational efficiency, was part of routine measures to position the Corps for its responsibilities as the country prepares for the 2027 General Election.

He said the Command considered postings necessary for operational effectiveness and rejected suggestions that the exercise was connected to any improper financial demands.

The PRO said the Command would not tolerate any unauthorised deduction from or levy on personnel allowances, adding that officers with genuine complaints should make use of established administrative channels for prompt and fair attention.

He warned that personnel found to have acted improperly would face the appropriate disciplinary procedures of the Corps.

Opebiyi also reaffirmed Padonu’s commitment to the NSCDC’s mandate of protecting lives and property, safeguarding critical national assets and infrastructure, and supporting other security agencies in maintaining peace and security across Oyo State.

He said the Commandant had continued to prioritise operational effectiveness, discipline, professionalism, inter-agency collaboration and personnel welfare since assuming office.

The Command also urged members of the public to exercise caution in receiving and sharing unverified claims concerning its leadership and activities.

While acknowledging the media’s role and the public’s right to information, Opebiyi stressed the need for allegations to be verified and affected institutions to be given an opportunity to respond before publication.

The Command said it would remain focused on its duties and directed official enquiries, clarifications and communications concerning its activities and operations to the Office of the PRO, its designated channel for official communication.