The newly appointed Osun State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Igbalawole Sotiyo, has voiced his dissatisfaction with the recent assault on an NSCDC operative by police officers in Osogbo. Sotiyo emphasized that, in times of conflict, senior authorities should step in to foster peace and order. He stressed that the Public Service Rules governing public servants prohibit any form of physical assault.

During a recent courtesy visit to Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Patrick Ogong Edung at the Zone 11 Command Headquarters in Osogbo, Sotiyo reiterated the importance of peace, professionalism, and adherence to established service rules. In response, AIG Edung expressed his appreciation for Sotiyo’s visit and underscored the importance of inter-agency collaboration in maintaining national security, noting that tensions typically arise only among junior personnel, while senior officers uphold strong cooperation.

AIG Edung condemned the altercation, labeling it a “public disgrace” and confirming that an impartial investigation is underway, as ordered by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.

The incident traces back to late October 2024, when a confrontation occurred between NSCDC personnel and police officers from the Oyo State Police Command at Elizabeth Estate, Osogbo. According to the police, NSCDC officers allegedly obstructed their arrest attempt, with accusations of the NSCDC personnel deflating the police van’s tire and assaulting two officers. In contrast, the NSCDC contended that the officers, dressed in civilian Ankara attire, failed to properly identify themselves, leading to confusion.