The Ibom Future Leaders Forum (IFLF) has expressed support for the Akwa Ibom State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Commandant Geraldine Abetianbe, while condemning what it described as a malicious campaign aimed at discrediting her leadership.
Speaking at a press briefing in Uyo, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Forum, Rt. Comrade Emmanuel Johnny, described Abetianbe as a detribalized, transparent and result-oriented officer whose leadership has strengthened the operations of the NSCDC in the state.
According to him, the Commandant has demonstrated professionalism, accountability and commitment to the protection of critical national assets since assuming office.
Johnny dismissed allegations of tribalism, corruption and discrimination against the Commandant, insisting that she has maintained fairness and integrity in the discharge of her duties.
He noted that the NSCDC, as a federal security agency with a nationwide presence, operates on the principles of competence and national spread rather than ethnic considerations.
He added that most strategic departments within the Akwa Ibom State Command are headed by indigenes of the state, while only a few positions are occupied by non-indigenes.
The Forum also rejected allegations of financial impropriety within the Command, stating that the finance department is managed by qualified professionals and that claims of financial recklessness were unfounded.
It further refuted reports that SP Michael Asibor currently heads the Anti-Vandal Unit, clarifying that the officer was redeployed from the Akwa Ibom Command in 2025 and that the unit is presently headed by SC Akan Ekanem.
On issues relating to staff welfare, the Forum explained that the Commandant did not introduce the welfare scheme being criticized. It said she inherited the arrangement upon assuming office but later discontinued it after personnel expressed dissatisfaction with the scheme.
The group commended the Commandant-General of the NSCDC, Prof. Ahmed Audi, for deploying Abetianbe to Akwa Ibom State, describing her as a people-oriented officer whose contributions have enhanced peace and security in the state.
The Forum also warned individuals behind what it termed false and defamatory publications against the Commandant to desist, threatening to petition the Nigeria Police National Cybercrime Centre for investigation and possible prosecution over alleged cyberstalking, defamation and actions capable of causing a breach of public peace.
Reaffirming its support for the NSCDC and other security agencies, the IFLF urged journalists and members of the public to verify information through the Public Relations Officer of the Akwa Ibom State Command to ensure balanced and accurate reporting.
