The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has confirmed the death of eight of its personnel and a civilian driver after gunmen laid an ambush on a convoy in Edo State on Friday night.
According to a statement released by the Corps on Saturday, the incident happened around 10:30 p.m. on September 5, 2025, along the Okpella–Agenebode road.
“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 read.
The assailants reportedly targeted the convoy escorting a Chinese worker from BUA Cement Company, Okpella. In the attack, eight NSCDC personnel attached to the Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) Department and a driver were killed, while the expatriate was abducted.
“A total of twelve (12) persons were on escort duty at the time of the attack. Sadly, the Chinese national was kidnapped during the incident,” the Corps confirmed.
The statement added that the victims’ remains have been deposited in the mortuary, while three survivors are being treated at a hospital. Among the casualties is Chief Corps Assistant (CCA) Oluwatosin Sunday of the Ondo State Command.
Describing the deaths as a devastating blow, the NSCDC said:”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 agency assured the public that security operatives are intensifying efforts to rescue the abducted expatriate and bring the attackers to justice.
“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 concluded with prayers for the deceased:”May the souls of our gallant officers rest in peace.”