By Isiaka Mustapha, Editor-in-Chief, People’s Security Monitor

The Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oyo State Command, Augustine Padonu, has denied allegations linking him to the alleged extortion of personnel under his command and has pledged to investigate the claims.The allegations, raised by anonymous officers, accused some officials within the command of imposing financial contributions on personnel deployed to various beats. The officers alleged that the deductions were presented as contributions towards the commandant’s birthday celebration and a church harvest programme.Responding to the allegations, Commandant Padonu said he had no knowledge of any compulsory deductions and never authorised any officer to collect money on his behalf. He stated that he neither directed nor approved any contribution from personnel to support his personal activities, adding that he only marked his birthday with prayers in his office and did not organise any celebration requiring financial support from officers.The commandant further explained that he became aware of the allegations through media reports and immediately resolved to conduct an internal investigation. He stressed that any officer found to have acted without proper authorisation would be required to explain his actions.The controversy followed claims that a senior officer allegedly coordinated collections from personnel. While the officer reportedly acknowledged that contributions were made, he maintained that they were voluntary welfare contributions and not acts of extortion. However, he did not directly implicate the commandant in authorising the exercise.Padonu expressed concern over the potential damage such allegations could cause to the image of the Corps and urged caution in reporting unverified claims. Supporting the commandant’s position, a deputy commandant within the Oyo State Command described the allegations as unfounded and suggested they could be connected to recent administrative changes and redeployments carried out within the command.The NSCDC Oyo State Commandant reiterated his commitment to transparency and accountability, assuring personnel and the public that the allegations would be thoroughly investigated to establish the facts and ensure appropriate action where necessary.