NSCDC sounds alarm over rising insecurity, infrastructure vandalism in C’River

2026-02-23 - 20:27

By Ike Uchechukwu The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has raised concerns over escalating insecurity in Cross River State, citing rising cases of abduction by sea pirates, violent crimes, banditry, kidnapping and widespread infrastructure vandalism. In a document detailing the Command’s activities from January to December 2025, the agency highlighted an increasing rate of attacks on critical national infrastructure by criminal syndicates operating across the state. The State Command, led by Commandant Okarazu Eke, stated that although security agencies are intensifying efforts to curb criminality, significant challenges persist in several areas. The report noted continued militancy in Bakassi and described the maritime corridor as volatile. It referenced the October 2025 abduction of four passengers travelling from Ikang Beach to Cameroon as one of several incidents recorded during the period. On violent crimes, the Command attributed many cases to communal clashes in parts of the state, particularly in Obubra and Ikom, where conflicts resulted in fatalities and disruption of economic activities. The Corps also decried repeated attacks on energy, telecommunications and industrial facilities. It listed the vandalism of base transceiver stations in Akpabuyo and Calabar, including locations along Atu Street and Murtala Mohammed Highway. Criminal elements reportedly made away with lithium batteries, cables, generator modules and other high-value equipment. Further incidents included vandalism of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) solar installations in Abasi Obori, Calabar, destruction of solar street lights in Akim Akim in Odukpani, and repeated attacks on the Calachika automated poultry and meat processing factory, where industrial equipment was stolen. The Command identified farmer herder clashes, land disputes, illegal mining and resource-driven criminality as additional threats. Notable conflicts were recorded in Yala between Oba and Ifega Okpame communities, as well as in Obubra and Ikom between Ochon and Alesi communities. The clashes intensified during the farming season and required multi-agency intervention. Illegal gold mining in the Agoi Ibami forest in Yakurr was also flagged as a growing concern. According to the report, activities of unauthorised local and foreign actors have contributed to environmental degradation, criminal financing and heightened inter-community tension. The Corps further raised concerns over human trafficking and gender based violence, which reportedly peaked between January and March 2025. It noted that perpetrators increasingly exploit social media platforms to lure victims. The proliferation of drug hubs across parts of the state was also identified as a factor fuelling criminal activities. To consolidate gains in crime prevention, the Corps called for improved logistics support, including operational vehicles and arms, to enable the deployment of specialised Agro Rangers units along key transit corridors. It stressed the need to tackle violent cattle rustling and secure routes linking northern Nigeria to Cross River. The Command also advocated the establishment of a digital forensic laboratory equipped with modern tools and advanced cyber intelligence training to combat technology-driven crimes and track online predators in real time.