The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunj-Ojo, has warned paramilitary officers against abusing the rights of Nigerians, saying the uniforms they wear and weapons they bear are to defend the defenseless.
The minister gave the warning while on inspection tour to the headquarters of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) on Thursday, in Abuja.
Tunji-Ojo, who expressed delight at the capabilities of the service, urged the Commandant-General of the Corps, Dr Ahmed Audi, to continue to use his skills to bring innovative ideas to the personnel.
The minister also commended the personnel of the corps who won medals for Nigeria at continental and international sports events, promising automatic promotions for the duo involved.
He thanked the officers for the sacrifices they had been making on daily basis just to ensure that Nigerians sleep with their two eyes closed.
“I want to plead with you to treat Nigerians with respect in all you do. The mere fact that you are in uniform does mean you should abuse the rights of Nigerians. Please treat Nigerians with respect.
“The female squad is novel within our clime and this is what Nigeria is about. This is the Nigerian spirit of innovation backed up with excellence.
“With the capacity that I have seen today, I know we are not too far from what we need to secure our country. The ministry will give you the needed support.
“Together we will build a security architecture that no level of insecurity can penetrate in any way.
“In line with the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ of the present administration, the ministry will not just be there for you, the government will have your backing.
