The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oyo State Command, has dismissed allegations that the State Commandant, Augustine Padonu, compelled personnel deployed on beats across the state to make financial contributions towards his birthday and church harvest.
The Command, in a statement issued on Tuesday by its Public Relations Officer, SC Samuel Olubanjo Opebiyi, described the allegations as false, stressing that Padonu never instructed, directed or authorised any officer or personnel to contribute money towards either his birthday or church harvest.
According to the statement, the celebrations were personal to the Commandant and his family and had no connection with the official duties or resources of the NSCDC.
The Command also questioned the timing of the allegations, noting that the birthday and church harvest referred to in the publication took place in early August.
It said the allegations surfaced only after the recent redeployment and restructuring of command formations carried out on Thursday, September 24, 2026, for operational efficiency as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.
The NSCDC said the timing could be linked to dissatisfaction among some individuals affected by the postings, describing redeployment as a routine measure necessary to position the Corps effectively for its responsibilities.
The Commandant, it added, remained focused on protecting lives and property, safeguarding critical national assets and infrastructure, and supporting other security agencies in maintaining peace and security across Oyo State.
Since assuming office, Padonu has, according to the Command, prioritised operational effectiveness, discipline, professionalism, inter-agency collaboration and the welfare of personnel.
The Command further stated that it would not tolerate any unauthorised deduction from or levy on personnel allowances, urging officers with genuine complaints to use established administrative channels for prompt and fair consideration.
It warned that any personnel found to have acted improperly would face appropriate disciplinary procedures in line with the rules of the Corps.
While acknowledging the role of the media and the public’s right to information, the NSCDC urged journalists to verify allegations and give affected institutions an opportunity to respond before publication.
The Command also urged members of the public to be cautious about receiving or circulating unverified claims concerning the leadership and activities of the Oyo State Command.
It assured the public that it would remain focused on its statutory responsibilities and would not be distracted by what it described as attempts to undermine public confidence in the Corps or the leadership of the State Commandant.
The NSCDC directed members of the public seeking clarification on its activities and operations to contact the Office of the Public Relations Officer, which it identified as the designated channel for official communication.