NSCDC Nabs Two Over Job Racketeering Scheme in Oyo

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Oyo State has taken two individuals into custody following allegations of conspiracy and involvement in a job racketeering scheme. Mr. Augustine Padonu, the NSCDC Commandant for Oyo State, announced the arrests during a parade of the suspects at the command's headquarters in Ibadan on Friday.

According to Commandant Padonu, the suspects are accused of illicitly collecting a total of N868,500 from several victims. They allegedly promised to help these individuals secure employment during the ongoing Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) recruitment screening exercise being conducted in Ibadan.

The arrests were made possible through actionable intelligence and the command's rigorous screening protocols, which identified an attempt to manipulate the recruitment process using a legitimate applicant's personal information. "Preliminary investigations also revealed that N868,500 was paid by four unsuspecting job seekers to facilitate fraudulent employment promises," Padonu stated. He further added, "I wish to state that the affected applicants are currently being treated as victims while investigations continue to unravel the full extent of the criminal network."

Upon the conclusion of investigations, the suspects will face legal proceedings in accordance with existing laws, the Commandant affirmed. He reiterated the Oyo State NSCDC command's unwavering commitment to ensuring that the ongoing recruitment exercise remains transparent, credible, and strictly based on merit.

Padonu issued a strong caution to both applicants and the general public, urging them to "avoid patronising fraudsters or anyone claiming ability to secure employment through unofficial channels." He emphasized that "All recruitment information should be obtained only through the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) official website." The Commandant concluded by assuring that the command will continue to uphold the rule of law and ensure that all individuals engaged in criminal activities are brought to justice.