NSCDC probes officer for ‘punching, threatening to shoot’ Yinka Ayefele

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has condemned the alleged attack on Yinka Ayefele, the gospel singer, by its personnel.

Ayefele was said to have been physically assaulted by an official of the corps at an event in Iloro, Ekiti state.

The incident was said to have started after the musician allegedly resisted an attempt by the officer to take money from his car.

Apparently rankled by his action, the officer reportedly punched the singer in the mouth. He also allegedly threatened to shoot him for refusing to give them money.

In a statement on Thursday by Olusola Odumosu, its director of public relations, the NSCDC apologised to the musician over the incident.

Odumosu said Ahmed Abubakar Audi, the commandant-general of the NSCDC, has ordered an investigation into the matter.

He added that Audi has also summoned all officers involved to Abuja for necessary disciplinary action.

“The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps condemn in very strong terms such untoward attitude which is unbecoming of an officer of the law,” the statement reads.

“The Corps under the leadership of Dr Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, has zero tolerance for corruption, indiscipline and any atrocious behaviour inimical to the safety and security of the citizens of this country.

“We do not in any way condone any act of recklessness, impudence or assault on any individual or group of persons nor Infringement on the fundamental human rights of citizens whether highly or lowly placed.

“Consequently, the commandant General has ordered that all concerned officers be identified and summoned immediately to the national headquarters for necessary disciplinary action.

“He has directed the Ekiti state commandant to without delay commence a full-scale investigation into the incident to establish the veracity of the allegation and the level of involvement and culpability of all the officers fingered in the matter.

“The Corps wishes to tender an unreserved apology to the renowned popular gospel singer, Yinka Ayefele, his followers, the Iloro Ekiti community, and everyone affected by this condemnable and horrendous act which contradicts the Corps tenets, rules of engagement, and standard operating procedure.

“The Corps is a friendly force with ‘humility and integrity in service delivery as its watchword. We are firm in the implementation of our mandate but Civil in orientation.

“The Corps respects the fundamental human rights of every Nigerian citizen and friend of the country residing within its geographical space.

“We will continue to work closely with the good people of this great country to ensure that their safety and security are not compromised.

“The Corps will therefore leave no stone unturned in making sure that justice is served in this matter and erring officers found culpable be decisively dealt with to serve as a deterrent to others.”