The newly deployed Osun State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Igbalawole Sotiyo, has expressed displeasure over the assault of an operative of NSCDC by officers of the Nigeria Police in Osogbo.

He insisted that when conflicts arise, higher authorities should be able to step in to resolve the issue for the sake of peace.

He also maintained that public servants are guided by the Public Service Rules, which do not condone physical brutality.

The Osun NSCDC boss, according to a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, Adeleke Kehinde, made this known during a courtesy visit to the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 11, Command Headquarters, Osogbo, AIG Patrick Ogong Edung.

Sotiyo said: “When conflicts arise, higher authorities should be able to step in to resolve the issue for the sake of peace. Public servants are guided by the Public Service Rules, PSR, which does not condone physical brutality.”

In his response, AIG Edung, who appreciated the visit by the NSCDC boss, acknowledged the importance of inter-agency collaboration, noting that no single security agency can tackle security challenges in the country alone.

He noted: “Inter-service rivalry predominantly occurs at the rank-and-file level, whereas senior officers demonstrate strong cooperation and synergy.”

He encouraged all agencies to foster a culture of collaboration, leveraging interagency partnerships to enhance national security.

AIG Edung also condemned the altercation between the agencies, describing it as a “public disgrace.”

He assured that an impartial investigation would be conducted, as directed by Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.

DAILY POST recalls that in late October 2024, an altercation ensued between personnel of the NSCDC and some police personnel from the Oyo State Police Command at Elizabeth Estate, Osogbo.

The police officers were reportedly prevented from carrying out an arrest by NSCDC personnel.

The Osun State Police Command, through its spokesperson, Yemisi Opalola, had said the NSCDC personnel beat two police officers and deflated the tire of the police patrol van.

In contrast, the Osun NSCDC spokesperson, Adeleke Kehinde, said the police officers were dressed in mufti (Ankara) and could not properly identify themselves.

DAILY POST