A violent confrontation between operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and Mobile Police (MOPOL) officers at a mining site in Ondo State has escalated into a full-blown crisis, leading to multiple injuries and the abduction of two police personnel.
According to SaharaReporters, the heated clash erupted around 4:15 PM on Wednesday at Ade-Olap Global Resources Ltd, located along the Ore-Sagamu Expressway in Ondo State. The incident has sparked tension among security agencies, raising concerns over inter-agency rivalry and the rule of engagement among law enforcement bodies.
According to a police signal obtained by SaharaReporters, Inspector Egbekele Alaba, who led the MOPOL 17 Akure unit stationed at the mining site, was confronted by armed NSCDC operatives. The NSCDC officers reportedly arrived in a convoy consisting of a gun truck and three Hilux vehicles and allegedly attempted to disarm the MOPOL personnel without prior notice.
This aggressive maneuver led to a fierce altercation, culminating in gunfire exchange between the two security outfits. During the melee, one NSCDC officer sustained a gunshot wound to the leg, while the NSCDC operatives managed to abduct two MOPOL officers, worsening the already tense standoff.
Following the shocking abduction, security operatives at various levels have initiated high-level consultations to de-escalate tensions and negotiate the release of the kidnapped officers. Sources indicate that urgent diplomatic efforts are underway to prevent further hostilities between the agencies involved.
Meanwhile, the injured NSCDC officer is receiving medical treatment and is reported to be in stable condition.
Official Wireless Signal Confirms Incident
A classified wireless message detailing the encounter read:
“On 12/02/2025 at about 1615hrs, armed NSCDC operatives, later discovered to be on a national assignment with officials of the Ministry of Mines, engaged in an encounter with four MOPOL 17 Akure personnel on guard duty at Ade-Olap Global Resources Ltd along Ore-Sagamu Expressway, Ondo State.
“According to the MOPOL team leader, Insp. Egbekele Alaba, NSCDC personnel, in a convoy of one gun truck and three Hilux vehicles, arrived without prior notification and attempted to disarm them. A scuffle ensued, leading to a gunshot injury sustained by one NSCDC officer, while two MOPOL personnel were abducted by the NSCDC team. Consultations are ongoing to de-escalate the situation and secure the release of the abducted personnel. The injured NSCDC officer is responding to treatment in the hospital. Further developments shall be communicated. Yours, please. AIGPOL MOPOL FHQ, Abuja.”
The shocking turn of events has left many questioning the lack of coordination among Nigeria’s security agencies, particularly in handling confrontations at high-risk zones such as mining sites. The involvement of the Ministry of Mines officials further complicates the situation, hinting at possible underlying conflicts over illegal mining operations.
As security forces work to secure the release of the abducted officers, this incident highlights the urgent need for improved synergy among Nigeria’s security agencies to prevent avoidable clashes that could compromise national security.
Stay tuned for further updates.
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