NSCDC report reveals alarming security decline in Cross River

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has raised the alarm over worsening insecurity in Cross River State, citing rising incidents of kidnapping, violent crime, infrastructure vandalism and illegal mining across the state.

Details of the development were contained in the command’s operational report covering January to December 2025, endorsed by the state Commandant, Mr. Okarazu Eke.
The report identified the Bakassi axis and the state’s maritime corridor as major flashpoints, noting that criminal activities have continued to threaten residents and economic assets.

The command cited a specific incident to underscore the threat. “We recorded the abduction of four passengers travelling from Ikang Beach to Cameroon in October 2025, among other incidents,” the commandant stated.

The report also highlighted persistent communal clashes in parts of the state, particularly in Obubra and Ikom local government areas, which led to fatalities and disruption of livelihoods.

On vandalism, the NSCDC said critical infrastructure, especially telecommunications and public utilities, had come under repeated attacks.

“There is the repeated vandalism of ATC Base transceiver stations in Akpabuyo, Calabar, Atu Street and Murtala Mohammed Highway.

We have also witnessed theft of Polarium Lithium Batteries, RRU cables, DG modules and other high-value components,” Eke said.

He further disclosed that public energy installations were not spared.

“Vandalism of NDDC solar installations, including solar poles and panels at Abasi Obori, Calabar, and solar street lights in Akim-Akim, Odukpani, were recorded. Similarly, there have been multiple attacks on the Calachika automated poultry and meat processing factory,” he added.

The report also identified farmer-herder clashes, illegal mining and land disputes as major contributors to insecurity.

“Illegal mining activities in Agoi Ibami forest in Yakurr Local Government Area attracted unauthorised local and foreign actors and contributed to environmental degradation, criminal financing and inter-community tension,” he said.

The NSCDC also raised concerns over human trafficking and gender-based violence, noting that perpetrators were increasingly exploiting technology.

“Perpetrators now use social media platforms to lure unsuspecting victims, making the crime more difficult to detect and prevent,” the commandant stated.

He further warned that drug abuse was fuelling criminal activities in parts of the state. “The proliferation of drug hubs has continued to fuel violent crimes and criminal behaviour across some communities,” he said.

Despite the challenges, the command said it was taking steps to address the situation but stressed the need for urgent support.

“To effectively combat these threats, the command requires operational vehicles, arms and digital forensic facilities to strengthen surveillance and track criminals,” Eke said.

He added: “A dedicated deployment of Agro-Rangers is essential to secure transit routes and protect far
ming communities from violent attacks.”
The report underscored the growing security concerns in Cross River State and the challenges facing security agencies in addressing the threats.