Nine Killed, Three Injured in Attack
Eight officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and a civilian driver were killed on Friday, September 5, 2025, following a violent ambush along the Okpella–Agenebode axis in Edo State. During the attack, armed assailants also kidnapped a Chinese national.
The NSCDC confirmed the incident in a statement released on Saturday, stating that the attack occurred at approximately 10:30 pm. The convoy was escorting a Chinese employee of BUA Cement Company, Okpella, when gunmen struck.
“The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) regrets to announce the unfortunate incident that occurred on Friday, 5th September 2025, at about 2230hrs, along the Okpella–Agenebode axis, Edo State,” the statement said.
According to the Corps, twelve personnel were on escort duty at the time of the attack. Eight NSCDC officers attached to the Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) Department, along with one civilian driver, were killed. Three other officers survived but sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical care. Among the fallen was Chief Corps Assistant (CCA) Oluwatosin Sunday of the Ondo State Command.
“The remains of the nine deceased have been deposited in the mortuary, while the three injured victims are receiving treatment at a medical facility,” the NSCDC stated.
Describing the incident as a “grievous loss,” the Corps expressed profound condolences to the families of the deceased and lauded the bravery of the officers who died in the line of duty.
“The Corps deeply mourns this grievous loss and commiserates with the families of the deceased, their colleagues, and the entire NSCDC family. We salute the gallantry of our officers who paid the supreme price in the line of duty and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives, national assets, and infrastructure,” the statement added.
The NSCDC assured the public that efforts are ongoing to rescue the kidnapped Chinese national.
“We call on the public to remain calm as the Corps, in collaboration with sister security agencies, intensifies efforts to rescue the kidnapped victim and bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice,” the statement said.
The Corps concluded by praying for the repose of the officers’ souls: “May the souls of our gallant officers rest in peace.”
