Rivers
New Rivers NSCDC Boss Vows Crackdown On Oil Vandals, Economic Saboteurs
The newly appointed Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Rivers State Command, Reuben Dennis, has declared a total war against oil vandals, economic saboteurs and other criminal elements threatening the security and economic wellbeing of the state.
He made the pledge during a brief handover ceremony at the Command’s headquarters on Olu Obasanjo Road, Port Harcourt, where he officially took over from the outgoing State Commandant, Joachin Okafor.
A statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Ihemnacho Umeado, said the outgoing commandant formally transferred authority to Dennis, who previously served as the Command’s second-in-command and most recently as Head of Operations, Zone 9, Port Harcourt.
In his inaugural remarks, Dennis promised to build on the achievements of his predecessor while intensifying efforts to protect critical national assets and infrastructure across Rivers State.
He warned criminal elements engaged in oil theft, pipeline vandalism and other forms of economic sabotage to steer clear of the state, stressing that the Command under his leadership would deal decisively with anyone found undermining national assets.
The new NSCDC helmsman also pledged to strengthen collaboration with sister security agencies and other stakeholders to improve security across the oil-rich state.
According to him, intelligence gathering, personnel development and enhanced operational efficiency will form key pillars of his administration.
Dennis further assured officers and men of the Command of improved welfare and regular training programmes aimed at boosting professionalism and operational readiness.
He, however, issued a stern warning against indiscipline, misconduct and unprofessional conduct among personnel, maintaining that erring officers would face appropriate disciplinary measures.
Emphasising that security remains a collective responsibility, Dennis called on residents to support law enforcement agencies with credible information capable of helping to combat crime and insecurity.
Earlier, the outgoing Commandant, Okafor, expressed gratitude to the NSCDC Commandant-General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, for the opportunity to serve the nation and the Corps.
He also commended Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, for supporting the Command, particularly through the donation of 10 Hilux patrol vehicles which, he said, significantly enhanced operational effectiveness.
Okafor urged his successor to prioritise the acquisition of a permanent site for the Command as part of efforts to strengthen its institutional presence in the state.
The ceremony featured the signing of handover documents, symbolic transfer of authority through the presentation of the NSCDC flag and a photo session attended by senior officers of the Command.