Audi mourns as NSCDC loses 8 operatives after rescue operation in Edo
Eight operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) were killed and several others injured during a violent ambush by unknown gunmen on Friday, September 5, 2025, in Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State.
The attack, according to NSCDC’s National Public Relations Officer, CSC Afolabi Babawale, occurred while the corps personnel were deployed to provide security for Chinese expatriates working at the BUA Cement Company.
According to the NSCDC, the armed gang launched a coordinated assault on the convoy of operatives and expatriates during a routine patrol, resulting in a three-hour gun duel. Four expatriates were rescued, one expatriate remains missing, and several operatives were critically injured and are currently receiving treatment.
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The Commandant General of the NSCDC, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, condemned the attack and described the fallen operatives as gallant patriots whose sacrifice will forever be remembered. He has directed the Edo State Commandant and other management staff officers to convey condolences to the families of the deceased and ensure that burial arrangements are conducted with full honours.
Professor Audi further assured that the medical treatment and bills of the injured personnel will be fully covered to support their speedy recovery. He also commended the collaboration of other security agencies in combing the forested areas where the attackers fled, emphasizing ongoing efforts to rescue the abducted expatriate and apprehend the perpetrators.
The NSCDC stressed that the corps remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting critical national assets and infrastructure, and that embellished reports about the incident should be disregarded. He reiterated that the attack will not deter the corps from performing its statutory duties.
The incident marks one of the deadliest attacks on security personnel in Edo State this year and has drawn national attention to the risks faced by operatives safeguarding expatriates and critical industrial installations in volatile areas.
By PRNigeria
