Ishaku Musa, the Commandant of the Plateau State Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has issued a stern warning to all operators of Private Guard Companies (PGCs) to desist from illegal operations and the unauthorized wearing of accoutrements belonging to military and paramilitary agencies, in order to avoid issues of impersonation and misrepresentation.

Speaking yesterday at the NSCDC State Headquarters in Jos, the Plateau State capital, Commandant Musa emphasised that the illegal wearing of military or paramilitary uniforms by operatives of Private Guard Companies is a counterproductive act, likely to result in impersonation and misrepresentation that could further heighten the insecurity crisis.

Musa said: “Let me emphasize that the NSCDC is statutorily mandated to license, train, monitor, and supervise Private Guard Companies (PGCs), according to the NSCDC Act No. 2 of 2003 (amended 2007). Part of this mandate includes regulating the uniforms worn by private security guards employed by operators of Private Guard Companies.”

He added: “In light of the above, and taking into consideration our present efforts grappling with the menace of insecurity, we shall vehemently resist within the framework of the law any act of illegal operations outside the scope of authorized activities, as well as acts of impersonation.
Unauthorized use of uniforms, including imitation of those worn by government security agencies, provides a fertile ground for criminals who disguise themselves as legitimate security operatives.”

Commandant Musa, however, disclosed that he has directed a coded comprehensive crackdown on all illegal security outfits in Plateau State. He advised the public to remain cooperative and always report any suspicious movement or activities to the relevant authorities.