The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has officially cleared Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) John Onoja Attah, commander of the Mining Marshals unit, of all allegations involving the diversion of N2 billion and a cover-up related to the death of Deputy Superintendent of Corps (DSC) Levi Agada during an operation in Nasarawa State. The Corps announced this after completing a thorough internal investigation, which found no evidence linking Onoja or the management team to the claims. Commandant-General Ahmed Audi, speaking through spokesperson Babawale Afolabi, emphasized that the allegations were false and lacked factual basis. This development comes months after serious accusations surfaced against Onoja and his team, sparking widespread public concern and scrutiny.
The NSCDC’s probe concluded that Onoja, as the lead prosecutor and head of the unit, had no involvement in any misconduct. The Corps also stated that other members of the Mining Marshals management were similarly exonerated. Despite earlier reports from some media outlets suggesting police had implicated Onoja in Agada’s death, the NSCDC maintained that its findings were conclusive and based on credible evidence. Onoja himself had previously denied the allegations, calling them part of a deliberate campaign to undermine the Mining Marshals’ efforts in combating illegal mining activities across the country.
In addition to clearing Onoja, the NSCDC took disciplinary action against 79 personnel for various forms of misconduct. Two operatives from the Mining Marshals unit were dismissed from service and recommended for prosecution for unlawfully supplying firearms to illegal miners. This move underscores the Corps’ commitment to upholding discipline and accountability within its ranks. The sanctions were announced during a press briefing held on Wednesday, where Afolabi reiterated the NSCDC’s zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and abuse of power.
The clearance of Onoja is expected to restore confidence in the Mining Marshals unit, which plays a critical role in enforcing mining regulations and curbing illegal mining operations that threaten national security and environmental sustainability. While the investigation has brought closure to the specific allegations, it also highlights the need for continued vigilance and transparency within security agencies. The NSCDC’s actions signal a firm stance against wrongdoing while protecting innocent officers from unfounded accusations. As the Corps moves forward, it will likely focus on strengthening internal oversight mechanisms to prevent similar controversies in the future.
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