Abuja: The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command has sealed seven Private Guard Companies (PGCs) for operating illegally in the territory. The defaulting PGCs were sealed by the FCT Commandant, Olusola Odumosu, during an operational tour in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the seven PGCs sealed include CEWARA Security in Wuse 2, Most Bright Security, Security China and Ebowise Security in Jabi. Others are Barumark Security in Wuye, Segad Security Protection Services in Prince and Princess Estate, and Prixair Security. Odumosu explained that six of these companies were sealed for operating without a license, while one was sealed for operating with an expired license.
Odumosu stated that the companies were sealed due to offenses such as lack of proper insignia, posing a threat to national security and public interest, employing guards without approval, and refusal to be subjected to the licensing authority. He emphasized that, according to Nigerian laws, non-indigenous security organizations are prohibited and that there is a need for strict compliance.
He further explained that, as a regulatory agency, the NSCDC ensures that any PGC must not only be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) but must also apply for a license through the NSCDC. The sealing operation aims to bolster internal security within the FCT.
Odumosu also pointed to the link between unlicensed security operations and incidents of kidnappings and other security issues in the area, highlighting the lack of proper profiling and background checks of security personnel as a significant concern. He noted that many operators of PGCs fail to understand the implications of their actions on national security, often providing uniforms to individuals without conducting thorough background checks.
He concluded by stating that the corps will continue to perform routine operations to seal non-compliant PGCs as a deterrent to others.
