The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Ebonyi State has firmly denied allegations that it conspired with other security agencies to cover up the sale of a newborn baby for ₦25 million.

This clarification came on Monday through a statement issued by the command’s Public Relations Officer, ASCI Emmanuella Ibeneme, on behalf of the Ebonyi NSCDC Commandant, Mr. Francis Nnadi, in Abakaliki.

Nnadi was reacting to a controversial report published by a media outlet (name withheld) under the headline, “How police officers, NSCDC in Ebonyi allegedly connived to cover up sale of newborn baby for N25m.”

Describing the publication as “false, baseless, and defamatory,” the NSCDC boss stressed that neither the command nor the officer mentioned in the story had any involvement in the alleged crime.

“The attention of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Ebonyi State Command, has been drawn to a misleading and malicious report,” the statement read. “We wish to state clearly that the officer mentioned and the command have no connection whatsoever with the said allegation.”

The NSCDC also clarified that after completing its preliminary investigation into the matter—an alleged illegal adoption case involving one Miss Sussana Nwanneka Nweze—the case was formally handed over to NAPTIP, the federal agency mandated to handle human trafficking and related offences.

In a stern warning to the media house behind the story, the command demanded an immediate retraction and public apology within 48 hours, threatening legal action if the demand is not met.

“The public deserves factual and balanced reporting, not sensational and unverified claims,” the statement continued. “We remain fully committed to justice and to providing effective security services to the government and people of Ebonyi State.”

This development serves as a fresh reminder of the importance of responsible journalism, especially in sensitive matters involving security agencies and vulnerable individuals.