By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has condemned the killing of eight of its officers by suspected kidnappers in Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State.
The officers, who were attached to BUA Cement Company, were ambushed while on routine patrol to provide security for expatriates working at the company. According to a statement by the Corps’ spokesperson, CSC Afolabi Babawale, the attack left eight personnel dead, four injured, one expatriate missing, while four others were rescued.
NSCDC Commandant General, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, described the slain officers as gallant men who paid the supreme price while serving the nation. He directed the Edo State Command to visit the families of the deceased, extend condolences, and make arrangements for their burial with full honours.
“Their labour, commitment, and patriotism will forever be remembered. Those under intensive care will have their medical bills fully covered to ensure quick recovery,” Prof. Audi said.
He stressed that the tragic incident would not deter the Corps from fulfilling its statutory duty of protecting critical national assets and infrastructure.
The NSCDC also dismissed earlier conflicting reports on the incident, assuring that the welfare, safety, and care of its personnel remain a top priority.
Prof. Audi commended other security agencies for collaborating with the Corps to comb the forests in search of the kidnappers and to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted expatriate.