Unprecedented Security Surge: 10,000 NSCDC Officers Deployed To Protect Rivers’ Oil Pipelines

NSCDC spokesperson Afolabi Babawale confirmed the deployment of the anti-vandal operatives on Wednesday, stating that their primary mission is to safeguard key national assets and curb pipeline vandalism, particularly in the Niger Delta region, where these attacks have raised significant concerns.

Babawale warned against the destruction and vandalism of critical infrastructure, emphasizing that over 10,000 NSCDC personnel have been mobilized to work alongside other security agencies to maintain peace and protect lives and property in the region.

The deployment comes amid escalating tensions following several explosions aimed at oil pipelines, and threats from Ijaw groups who have vowed to disrupt oil production and harm the economy if lawmakers push forward with the impeachment of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

These attacks coincide with the worsening political crisis in the state, which led President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Rivers. In a national address on Tuesday, Tinubu announced the suspension of Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state’s House of Assembly for six months. He appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas (retd.) as the sole administrator to oversee the state during this period. Ibas was sworn in on Wednesday at the Aso Villa.

Babawale stressed the NSCDC’s vital role in protecting national infrastructure, noting that the corps is the lead agency for safeguarding critical assets. He added that all NSCDC commands nationwide are on high alert to prevent economic sabotage and acts of vandalism, collaborating closely with other security agencies to ensure comprehensive protection of lives and property.