The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps on Wednesday closed three private security companies operating illegally in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

The sealed companies are Ochacho Security Nigeria Ltd at Idu Industrial Layout, Justigo Security and Allied Services in Gwarimpa, and Macro Security Consult and Service at Wuse 2.

These companies were sealed for various offenses, including threats to national security and public interest, failure to register as private guard companies, refusal to be licensed, use of dual uniforms, and failure to renew operational licenses.

The NSCDC pointed out that these actions violated the Private Guards Act of 2004, which mandates private security companies to obtain regulatory approval and licenses for their operations.

The NSCDC FCT Commandant, Olusola Odumosu, led the operation and explained that the command had previously invited the affected security companies to address the infractions, but they failed to respond.

Odumosu emphasized the importance of monitoring and enforcing regulations regarding private security companies, as they play a crucial role in Nigeria’s internal security system.

He stated, “This is a matter of serious security concern which cannot be compromised, so we can’t allow quacks or miscreants to handle our security. This effort will be sustained, security operations are not for everyone because we are already facing too many security challenges, and that is why we will not allow any operation that is illegal. Under the leadership of the Commandant General, Ahmed Audi, we will not condone such illegalities and threats to national security”

He also mentioned that once these sealed private guard companies fulfill the necessary operational requirements, they will be unsealed and given operational approval.