The Rivers State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) gets a new commandant
By Chinedu Oguh, Port Harcourt
In a smooth change of guard, Commandant Dennis Lessor Reuben has officially taken over the helm of affairs of the Rivers State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) as the 16th substantive state Commandant.
A statement issued by the Command Public Relations Officer (CDPRO), SC Ihemacho Umeado explained that Reuben takes over from Commandant Joachin Okafor, who has bowed out.
At a brief handing-over ceremony held on Tuesday 9th June 2026 at the Command Headquarters, the statement further stated that the out-going Commandant symbolically transferred the seal of authority to the new State Commandant Dennis Lessor Reuben.
Until his appointment, Reuben served as the immediate past Deputy Commandant of Rivers State Command and most recently, as Head of Operations, Zone 9, Port Harcourt.
In his farewell address, Okafor expressed his profound gratitude to the Commandant General, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, for entrusting him with such strategic role and for the rare privilege to serve the corps and the nation. He also appreciated the governor of Rivers State Sir Siminalayi Fubara for the logistics support, particularly the donation of 10 Hilux Patrol Vans that boosted the Command’s operational capacity.
According to the statement, Cmdt Okafor highlighted key achievements of his tenure, including the donation of 10 Hilux vans by the Rivers State Government; installation of a 60KVA mini-solar grid by Niger Delta Development Commission NDDC to power the entire Command; restoration and refurbishment of grounded operational vehicles; entrenchment of NSCDC as a pivotal member of the State Security Council; and robust inter-agency collaboration.
He urged the new Commandant to prioritize securing a befitting permanent site for the Command.
In his acceptance remarks as contained in the release from the Command spokesperson, Cmdt Dennis Lessor Reuben PhD pledged to sustain the legacies of his predecessor. He promised to strengthen synergy with sister security agencies and collaborate with all critical stakeholders to ensure Rivers State remains safe and secure.
Reuben vowed to intensify the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure, warning criminal elements to stay clear as the Command under his watch will deal decisively with economic sabotage and vandalism. He also committed to prioritize training and retraining of personnel, intelligence gathering and improved welfare for officers and men.
The State Commandant issued a stern warning that indiscipline and misconduct will not be tolerated and disciplinary action will be taken against any erring officer. He emphasized that security is a collective responsibility and urged residents to support efforts to tackle insecurity.
He expressed gratitude to the Commandant General, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi for the opportunity to serve. He also thanked the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike and the State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, as well as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership style.
Meanwhile, the command has renewed its intelligence-led operations to dismantle illegal refineries and artisanal oil storage sites across the Niger Delta. This involves the deployment of specialized tactical teams into the creeks and difficult terrains.
In addition to tackling economic sabotage, the NSCDC is extending its operational reach to rural schools by deploying its personnel for regular surveillance to ensure the safety of students.
Again, the corps is strictly warning its operatives against the misuse of firearms, emphasizing professionalism and accountability while safeguarding lives, property and critical national infrastructure.
In a related development, the Rivers State Police command has taken cognizance of a video and reports circulating on social media alleging that ASP Omomefe Akin Geoffery and other Police Officers were involved in extorting money from the members of the public while carrying out their duties.
Consequently, the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, CP Olugbenga Adeboju has ordered for their arrest, detention and immediate investigation of the allegation.
In a press release issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo, the Commissioner of Police reiterates that extortion, illegal collection of money and any form of unprofessional conduct by police personnel will not be tolerated under any circumstances. He emphasized that the command remains committed to ensuring that officers conduct themselves in a manner that promotes public trust, accountability and respect for human rights.
CP Adeboju assures the public that the investigation will be thorough, transparent and impartial. Any officer found culpable will face appropriate disciplinary actions in accordance with the provisions of the law and the Police Act.
The Rivers State Police Command appreciates members of the public for bringing such incidents to its attention and encourages citizens to continue reporting cases of misconduct, corruption and abuse of office through its established complaint channels.
The command remains resolute in its commitment to professional policing, discipline, integrity and quality service delivery to all residents of Rivers State.
