"Use arms against criminals, not innocent citizens," Corps boss

The Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Alhaji

Muhammadu gave the warning in Badagry, Lagos during the passing out parade of 200 officers and men of the corps trained by the Nigerian Army in handling arms and other combat drills.

The NSCDC boss, who was represented by the Assistant Commandant-General, Zone A, Lagos, Mr Waheed Popoola, said accidental discharge was not permitted by anyone in the corps.

“Accidental discharge is a capital offence in the NSCDC. You have been trained on how to handle of arms; this should guide you in the discharge of your duties.

“Anyone that misuses arms will never go near it again. The four-week training is meant to help corps personnel discharge their responsibilities as expected of them,’’ he said.

He said the training had improved the necessary skills of the officers and men of the corps and boosted their performance in the discharge of their official duties.

Muhammadu, who commended the Army and Lagos State Government for their assistance, however, requested for more equipment.

The representative of the Army, Col. U. Garuba of the 82 Division, said the training was a testimony of the cordial relationship between the Army and NSCDC.

Garuba said that the training would continue to assist the officers and men of the corps in the discharge of the functions.

The Commandant, Lagos State Command NSCDC, Mr Tajudeen Balogun, who expressed joy over the training, stressed that with the calibre of officers of the corps, life and property would be protected in the state.

He assured the people that the corps would join other sister agencies to provide adequate security during the yuletide in the area.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the officers and men demonstrated their new skills in handling arms to the admiration of officers and family members present.

Representatives of the Police, Navy, Prisons, Immigration, NDLEA, EFCC, SSS, ICPC and FRSC among others attended the ceremony.