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

The redeployment of Commandant Olariche Jonathan Ogueri to head the Akwa Ibom State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) presents a significant leadership challenge amid concerns about personnel management, inter agency relations and engagement with external stakeholders. His immediate priority should be to assess the situation, establish the facts behind reported grievances and strengthen the command’s capacity to fulfil its statutory responsibilities. While allegations of internal divisions and strained relationships deserve attention, affected parties must be heard and claims verified before conclusions are reached.

One critical task is to rebuild working relationships with other security agencies in Akwa Ibom. Intelligence sharing, coordinated operations and regular security consultations are essential to effective security management. If disagreements or communication failures have weakened existing partnerships, Ogueri should identify the causes, engage relevant agency heads and establish clear communication channels to ensure that institutional differences do not compromise public safety.

The reported redeployment of approximately 25 senior officers from Akwa Ibom to other NSCDC commands nationwide also requires clarification. Some personnel have reportedly questioned the circumstances surrounding the transfers, raising concerns about fairness and due process. Although redeployment is a legitimate administrative tool, Ogueri should review relevant records, establish whether prescribed procedures were followed and refer any substantiated irregularities to the appropriate authorities. A transparent process would help address legitimate concerns without undermining the Corps’ administrative structure.

Relations with journalists and traditional institutions deserve similar attention. Reports of communication difficulties between the command and the media under the previous leadership should be examined through consultations with the Nigeria Union of Journalists, security correspondents and media executives. Regular briefings and timely responses to inquiries would promote accurate reporting and public awareness without compromising sensitive operational information. Ogueri should also engage traditional rulers, religious leaders and community representatives to address reported grievances and establish sustained channels of consultation that support intelligence gathering, conflict prevention and public cooperation.

Internally, allegations of factionalism, disharmony and unresolved personnel grievances require careful investigation. The commandant should meet officers across ranks and departments, review outstanding petitions and examine complaints relating to postings, promotions, welfare and disciplinary decisions. Where unfair treatment is established, appropriate remedies should be pursued in accordance with service regulations. Administrative decisions must reflect fairness, consistency and merit, while personnel remain accountable for professional conduct and discipline.

Ogueri must equally assess operational readiness, logistics, personnel deployment and accountability mechanisms, including procedures for receiving and investigating complaints. Improving service delivery requires clear performance standards, impartial handling of grievances and regular monitoring of administrative and operational decisions. Public confidence will depend not only on the command’s security operations but also on how responsibly it treats personnel and responds to the concerns of the communities it serves.

A proposed 30 day assessment, followed by a 90 day progress review, would provide a practical framework for measuring improvements. The first 30 days should focus on establishing the facts, consulting stakeholders and identifying urgent problems. The subsequent review should assess progress in inter agency cooperation, media relations, community engagement, personnel welfare and the resolution of outstanding grievances. These milestones would help establish priorities and provide a measurable basis for evaluating the new administration.

Ultimately, Ogueri’s success will depend on his ability to resolve genuine problems without prejudging individuals or institutions. Any shortcomings established against the previous administration should be addressed through credible evidence, while unverified allegations must not be treated as proven misconduct. However, due process should not become an excuse for inaction. The new commandant has an opportunity to strengthen discipline, restore constructive relationships, promote unity among personnel and improve cooperation with security partners, journalists and traditional rulers.

His leadership will ultimately be judged by measurable improvements in operational effectiveness, administrative fairness, personnel morale and public confidence. Addressing these priorities decisively and transparently would give the Akwa Ibom NSCDC Command a stronger foundation for delivering on its mandate and advancing security across the state.