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

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has dismissed two officers involved in an unauthorised firearm engagement that resulted in the death of a Mining Marshals commander, Levi Agada, in Nasarawa State, while sanctioning 79 other personnel for professional misconduct between September and October 2026. The disciplinary action, announced by the Commandant-General of the Corps, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, underscores the NSCDC’s determination to enforce discipline, professionalism and accountability among its personnel, regardless of rank or operational assignment.

The two dismissed officers were reportedly involved in the unauthorised firearm incident that claimed Agada’s life. Their dismissal sends a strong message that indiscipline, operational recklessness and conduct capable of undermining the integrity of the Corps will not be tolerated. The sanctions against the additional 79 personnel further demonstrate the leadership’s resolve to address internal misconduct and strengthen institutional standards.

Beyond the disciplinary developments, the NSCDC continues to record important operational gains through its Mining Marshals, whose activities have strengthened the Federal Government’s campaign against illegal mining, mineral theft and the economic sabotage of the nation’s solid mineral resources.Under the leadership of Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) John Attah Onoja, the Mining Marshals have sustained enforcement operations across the country, targeting illegal mining sites, arresting suspected offenders, recovering mining locations and ensuring that operators comply with relevant laws and regulations.

The Mining Marshals have also demonstrated the importance of inter-agency collaboration, particularly through cooperation with relevant government institutions and mining regulatory authorities. Their operations have helped reinforce the Federal Government’s efforts to sanitise the mining sector, protect mineral-bearing communities and improve revenue generation from Nigeria’s solid mineral resources.

In a recent operational disclosure, the Mining Marshals reported 671 arrests and 397 cases instituted before the Federal High Court in connection with illegal mining activities. These figures reflect the growing enforcement capacity of the unit and the determination of its leadership to confront those exploiting the nation’s mineral wealth outside the law.The NSCDC also disclosed other operational successes, including the dismantling of a suspected child trafficking syndicate, the rescue of trafficked children, arrests over the vandalism of more than 15 kilometres of electricity conductors and the disruption of armed robbery and vehicle theft networks. The Corps said the achievements formed part of its broader responsibility to protect lives, property and critical national infrastructure.