Fresh allegations of administrative misconduct and abuse of office have reportedly triggered unrest within the Akwa Ibom State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps under the leadership of Commandant Geraldine Abetianbe, with concerned personnel calling on the Corps’ national leadership to launch an immediate investigation into the developments.

Sources within the command alleged that a welfare contribution scheme, which had existed for years as a voluntary initiative among personnel, was abruptly dissolved, leading to demands for refunds to affected officers.

According to findings, 12,000 naira was to be deducted annually in three instalments of N4,000 each, amounting to about N12 million per year from the salaries of about 1,000 staff. 

The decision to discontinue the arrangement reportedly affected officers serving both within and outside the state, prompting concerns over the handling of members’ contributions.

Some personnel also alleged that certain officers have been subjected to unfair treatment and marginalisation in the command. The officers claimed that key appointments and sensitive positions were concentrated among individuals perceived to have close personal ties with the command’s leadership, a development they said has negatively affected morale, trust, and cohesion among personnel.

The allegations have further heightened tensions within the command, with several stakeholders expressing concern that the situation could undermine operational efficiency and weaken the Corps’ ability to effectively discharge its mandate in the state.

Sources familiar with the matter further claimed that the growing controversy has attracted the attention of government officials and other security stakeholders. According to the sources, concerns have been raised over allegations relating to transparency, accountability, and the management of official responsibilities within the command.

The situation reportedly reached a dramatic point on July 10, 2026, when the Commandant was allegedly prevented from participating in an official engagement involving the reception of the state governor. While details surrounding the incident remain unclear, the development has fueled further speculation and debate among personnel and stakeholders.

Observers warn that the dispute has begun to affect relationships between the NSCDC and other security and government institutions operating in the state. Some stakeholders described the current atmosphere as unhealthy and capable of hindering the collaborative efforts required to address security challenges effectively.

Calls are now mounting for the NSCDC National Headquarters to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the allegations. Officers who spoke on condition of anonymity urged the Corps’ leadership to establish the facts, ensure accountability where necessary, and take measures capable of restoring confidence within the command.

Stakeholders also emphasized the need for transparency in handling the matter, noting that unresolved grievances among personnel could have long-term implications for discipline, morale, and operational effectiveness.

They maintained that a prompt intervention by the national leadership would help reassure personnel, strengthen institutional integrity, and prevent further deterioration of the situation.